Netherlands vs Brazil Betting Pick | World Cup

World Cup

2010-07-02 - Netherlands vs Brazil

A Sports Betting Pick by Cruiser

Analysis:

This will be the most anticipated match of the World Cup to date as Netherlands takes on Brazil at Port Elizabeth. Both sides goes into this clash on the back of impressive results in the World Cup to date.

Five-time champions Brazil topped their group and easily disposed of Chile 3-0 in the second round, while the Dutch ended the challenge of Slovakia 2-1 after winning every game in the group stage. These two teams famous for its attacking free flowing football have adopted a more cautious approach lately.

Dunga's Brazil have been most impressive in defence and the coach who won the trophy back in 1994 as Captain to the side will once again rely on his defence here. They also have a good strike force with the likes of Kaka and Robinho upfront as they are beginning to show form. Luis Fabiano will be there to provide support to the stikers as well.

Holland, meanwhile head into the game on a 23-match unbeaten run and were rarely troubled by Denmark, Cameroon and Japan in the group. Manager Bert van Marwijk has received criticism for not playing in the typical Dutch way, but he will be seen as a hero if he can return to Holland with the World Cup.

As for the team news, Arjen Robben is likely to start after playing well against Slovakia. Wesley Sneijder is another player who can cause Brazil problems. Sneijder scored the second goal against Slovakia and is set to continue in midfield with Rafael van der Vaart expected to again be on the bench.

Meanwhile Van Marwijk is demanding unity between his players after striker Robin van Persie reacted angrily to being substituted in the last game. Disharmony in the Dutch ranks has been their downfall in past tournaments and now they need to keep their act together if they are to go further in the World Cup.

On the other hand, Brazil will be without Elano for the match after an injury to his ankle while fellow midfielder Ramires is suspended. That means that Dunga is forced to make changes here and he also has concerns over Felipe Melo and Julio Baptista.

Josue may start alongside Gilberto Silva in midfield should Melo not recover in time for this match.

For the record, Brazil and Holland have met on nine previous occasions, with Brazil having won three while the Dutch have come out on top twice, with the other four games ending in draws.

Go for this match to end in a draw and take the 1/2 ball for Netherlands here.

Cheers and good luck,
Cruiser