Today’s clash between the United States and Paraguay has direct implications on which sides will advance from the Group stage. Colombia vs. Costa Rica’s outcome will also play a factor, and will surely be one to watch.
With six points through two matches, Colombia is cruising down easy street. They are automatically through to the next round and would claim the top spot with a win or draw against Costa Rica, who currently sit in last place. In fact, Colombia could earn the top spot even with a loss, if the U.S. and Paraguay finish without a winner.
The United States still has an outside shot at the top spot in the group, but would have to earn three points on Saturday and receive a Colombia loss as well. The more likely option is that the Americans will claim the second spot, but a disastrous end to the Group stage could see the red, white and blue going home early.
Here are the scenarios to watch out for:
USA Finishes First
USA win vs. Paraguay AND Costa Rica win vs. Colombia
USA Finishes Second
USA win vs. Paraguay AND Costa Rica draw vs. Colombia
Or
USA win vs. Paraguay AND Costa Rica loss to Colombia
Or
USA draw vs. Paraguay AND Costa Rica loss vs. Colombia
Or
USA draw vs. Paraguay AND Costa Rica draw vs. Colombia
USA Finishes Third
USA draw vs. Paraguay AND Costa Rica win vs. Colombia by seven or more goals
Or
USA loss vs. Paraguay AND Costa Rica draw vs. Colombia
Or
USA loss vs. Paraguay AND Costa Rica loss vs. Colombia
USA Finishes Fourth
USA loss vs. Paraguay AND Costa Rica win vs. Colombia
