Veteran soccer analyst Jon "Buckets" Eimer has unveiled his favorite proposition bets ahead of the 2026 World Cup, a tournament that will be co‑hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Eimer, known for his deep knowledge of global leagues, frames the predictions as a blend of statistical insight and intuition honed over years of following the sport.
Home‑field edge and odds
The United States last hosted the World Cup in 1994, and the 2026 edition marks a return that could give the USMNT a tangible advantage. Eimer notes that the American side reached the Round of 16 in each of the last three tournaments they qualified for, a pattern he believes will repeat when the team leverages familiar conditions and supportive crowds.
Current betting markets reflect that optimism. The U.S. is listed at +7000 to win the championship, while Canada sits at +17500. In their opening group match against Paraguay, the Americans are modest favorites at +100 on the money line, a figure that underscores the competitive balance within the group.
When it comes to individual accolades, Eimer points to Christian Pulisic as the +340 favorite to finish as the USMNT’s top scorer, with Folarin Balogun close behind at +380. The analyst also highlights a long‑shot market priced near +2000 for a goal scored from outside the box, indicating his willingness to explore less obvious opportunities.
Eimer’s confidence extends beyond the group stage; he predicts the U.S. could meet Egypt in the Round of 32 if they finish second, a matchup he believes the Americans can win. His credibility is reinforced by a 2023 season in which he finished as SportsLine’s No. 1 soccer expert, a track record that has attracted a sizable following among bettors who trust his judgment on high‑volume wagers. The projections are available through major sportsbooks, including FanDuel Sportsbook, which offers live odds and betting options for fans.