Football
ESPN staff 9y

Jamaica's Schaefer wants to hurt U.S. in 'David vs Goliath' Gold Cup semifinal

Jamaica coach Winfried Schaefer admits his side are the underdogs against the United States in Wednesday's CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinal, but will try to hit Jurgen Klinsmann's side "where it hurts the most."

Giles Barnes scored the only goal of Jamaica's quarterfinal clash with Haiti to send his side into the last four of the tournament against the United States, who beat Cuba 6-0 to progress.

While Klinsmann's team are heavy favourites to secure a place in Sunday's final in Philadelphia against either Mexico or Panama, Schaefer has confidence in his side springing a surprise.

"It feels like David against Goliath," Schaefer told reporters on Tuesday. "That's fine with us. We will try to hit the giant where it hurts the most."

United States boss Klinsmann says that beating Jamaica and going on to win the trophy was important as it would ensure qualification for the 2017 Confederations Cup.

"I think that the fact that a spot in the Confederations Cup is on the line speaks for itself. It's all down to business tomorrow night," Klinsmann said. "Every game in this tournament is a battle and we definitely expect a battle against Jamaica."

Jamaica have matched their best ever Gold Cup run already, and would be the first Caribbean team in the final if they beat the United States In contrast, Klinsmann's side have reached nine of the previous 12 finals.

Jamaican forward Michael Seaton said: "We're feeling good on and off the pitch and that brings a confidence to our team," while United States captain Michael Bradley added: "We know Jamaica well. They have a unique blend of organisation and discipline and also athleticism."

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