subject: FIFA World Cup 2010-Netherlands vs Spain World Cup Final Preview [print this page] FIFA World Cup 2010-Netherlands vs Spain World Cup Final Preview
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Many European soccer fans penciled Spain into the final when they first saw the FIFA World Cup 2010 bracket. But only serious soccer fans had the Netherlands in the other half of their bracket. Those serious fans knew these two were among the best European teams in the field, and they have both lived up to expectations.
Road to the World Cup 2010 Final
Netherlands is undefeated in World Cup 2010. After a perfect run through group play Netherlands held on to beat Slovakia 2-1 in the round of 16, and rallied in the second half to beat Brazil 2-1 in a huge upset in the quarterfinals. Netherlands beat Uruguay 3-2 in a wild, high-scoring semifinal game.
World Cup 2010 has been a challenge for Spain.. Since an opening game defeat to Switzerland, coach Vicente Del Bosque's team has been forced to fight for its life in a series of tight matches. La Furia Roja did control the match in the round of 16 vs Portugal but only managed a 1-0 win. The quarterfinal match against Paraguay was another typical nail-biter, with both sides missing penalty shots in the second half, and the Spanish side only pulling out the win with David Villa's goal in the 82nd minute. Spain defeated Germany in another tight match in the semifinals, this time 1-0 on Carlos Puyol's goal in the 73rd minute.
World Cup History Between Netherlands and Spain
Netherlands has been to the World Cup Final twice before but suffered painful losses on both occasions. Spain has never won a World Cup but they have made 12 appearances including three quarterfinals and one semifinal. The teams have played each other three times in World Cup play, with Netherlands holding a 2-1 edge.
Injuries and Penalties/Suspensions
Spain is suffering from a number of minor injuries but with the possible exception of the shoulder of midfielder Cesc Fabregas, all of the injuries are relatively minor and do not look to keep anyone out of the championship game.. Defender Gerard Piqu and midfielder Sergio Busquets received yellow cards in the Paraguay game and must play with caution to avoid another card and suspension.
Strategy
Look for the Netherlands to come out a little on the aggressive side. Not to the extent of taking big risks, but they cannot afford to let Spain dominate the center of the field like they did against Germany. Also look for quick substitutions from Dutch Coach Bert van Marwijk, especially if they fall behind.
Spain is likely to play to try and control the middle of the pitch with their intricate passing game, so expect a more passive counterattacking game from them, at least in the first half, and look for la Furia Roja to try and get the ball to David Villa as much as possible for their offense.
