FIFA World Cup 2010 finalists will meet in their respective first matches this time. With the quality of football on display, this will definitely be one of the most watched matches in the group stage. Spain boast in form players, but have seen that their tiki-taka style can now be beaten and will have to be more careful in their approach. The Dutch have never been an easy team to beat and will be looking for revenge and also redemption for their dismal performance in the last EUROs.
Top Players to look out for:
The backbone of the Spanish team is still nearly the same as the team that won the last World Cup and Last 2 EUROs. With Pique and Ramos heralding their defense and Busquets and Alonso in the defensive midfield, their attack will play with a free mind. Talent is not lacking in this team and Juan Mata, Santi Carzola, Koke, and Cesc Fabregas will want to prove their mettle and get priority over the likes of Andres Iniesta, David Villa and Xavi. This season, Spain have an in form striker in the likes of Diego Costa, but we have often seen that Fernando Torres performs well for the national team.
Netherlands is a traditionally strong team in football and has some stars of their own. Manchester United’s Van Persie will be their leading man no doubt but their stalwarts Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder will also look to control the game. Midfield possession will probably decide the outcome of this game and this is a position where the Dutch side lack.
Teams Head-to-Head:
The teams are level where head to head fixtures are concerned with 4 wins each and a draw. However, Spain has marginally scored more goals against Netherlands than the reverse and with their current form, the reigning Champions will be favourites for this match.
Prediction:
Current form, ranks and the form of the players suggests Spain will have the edge in this encounter. With an expected better midfield possession, they will also create more opportunities. However, expect a few moments of individual brilliance from both sides to score their goals.
Final score prediction Spain 1 – 1 Netherlands
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