In just the second match of the competition, Spain and Holland square off in a repeat of the 2010 World Cup final. Both teams are not only the top two teams in the group but two of the contenders for the cup as well. Whoever looses this match is likely to finish second in the group and will have to face Brazil in the round of 16. That is a worrisome prospect at such an early stage in the tournament. This game itself will be a very entertaining encounter given the talent on display and the tactical nous and vast experience of both managers. Spain have won the last three major international tournaments and their pass-the-opponent-to-death style of football is as much a joy to behold as it is frustrating to opponents. The Netherlands, on the other hand play a more direct kind of football with winger Arjen Robben particularly dangerous with the ball at his feet.

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TEAM NEWS

Whether the Roja boss will play hotshot Diego Costa-who has just returned from injury- in his usual 4-3-3 remains to be seen. Playing Cesc Fabregas in a false nine role is also an option that Del Bosque has utilized in the past. Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal also faces a dilemma as Jonathan de Guzman’s hamstring injury may force him to pair Jordy Clasie with Nigel de Jong in central midfield. In recent times, LVG has taken to playing a 5-3-2 formation with full backs Daryl Janmaat and Daley Blind overlapping to help the attack.

Odds Comparison:

All odds are subject to change. Odds listed are correct at the time of the latest update.

Possible Line ups

Spain (4-3-3) : Casillas; Azpilicueta, Alba, Ramos, Pique; Busquets, Alonso, Xavi; Silva, Iniesta,

Costa

Netherlands (5-3-2) : Cillessen; Janmaat, Blind, De Vrij, Martins Indi, Vlaar; De Jong, Clasie,

Sneijder; Robben, Van Persie

KEY BATTLE

Bayern Munich forward Arjen Robben will be given the freedom to roam; right wing, left wing, the hole. His terrific pace against centre backs Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique will be something of a mismatch. Robben is a match winner on his day and the Spain backline will do well to stay tight on him.

ONE TO WATCH

If Diego Costa manages to convince Vincent Del Bosque of his match fitness, he would no doubt be the one to watch in this match. The Chelsea bound striker could be the answer to Spain’s striking problems since Fernando Torres’ spectacular loss of form.

PREDICTION

This just might be the most difficult match to predict throughout the tournament. Spain will play as they always do, keeping the ball and pressing their opponents high on the pitch. Netherlands on the other hand, will look to hit the Spaniards on the counter with the great passing range of fit-again Wesley Sneidjer combined with the pace and trickery of Arjen Robben. Spain’s style ensures that the goals can come from anywhere on the pitch but Robin van Persie is the main threat of the Oranje and they will look to bring their star man into play as often as possible. Spain are notorious slow starters and Louis van Gaal’s men could just knick this.

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