So, interesting times ahead!
EuroPacer wrote:Here is my analysis of the Netherlands' chances for this World Cup:
The key is that the manager (Louis van Gaal) has actually changed the way the Netherlands play, shaping the team to a 5-3-2 variant to fit the available personnel.
This is key because it reveals a number of things:
The midfield isn't as good as it once was, Sneijder has played in a poorish division for a few years now, Strootman is injured and although exciting prospects Wijnaldum and Clasie aren't quite experienced enough to do anything at a World Cup. De Guzman and Fer are solid role-players but not a lot more and Nigel de Jong is where the 5-3-2 becomes revealing: Van Gaal will likely play him as a midfield enforcer behind Sneijder and one of the other candidates.
The defence is a massive work in progress with some very young/inexperienced players, they haven't got 100 caps between them and Ron Vlaar is the most experienced man, but is he capable of turning the likes of De Vrij and Martins Indi into proper centre backs in a system that relies on two wing-backs (Janmaat and Blind) to find the space in front all the time? Behind them a selection of inexperienced (at international level) goalies. I would go with Krul but it looks like Van Gaal will favour Cillessen of Ajax. By the way, don't be fooled by not having heard of De Vrij and Martins Indi, you will soon enough, both are being targeted by big European clubs.
The attack is by far the most potent part of the team, Dirk Kuyt is coming along as pinch-hitter, Robben and Van Persie will lead the attack to start each game and if needed Huntelaar (underrated!) can come on to force things as a centre-forward. My issue with the system is the reliance on Robben and Van Persie playing well together, there is no denying they are incredible players individually, but can they break open a dogged Aussie backline or the crafty Chileans?
I reckon the Netherlands will get out of the group in second place, behind Spain, but only just. That will likely mean Brazil in round two and although exciting because young, there is no way that this defense can stop Neymar and co from scoring.
