Their 0 -1 loss to Spain in the 2010 world cup in South Africa still leaves a very painful memory no doubt. That was also the third time the Orange boys were finishing as World Cup runners up. So when both teams filed out at Salvador on June 13 for their first group match, the Dutch had one thing in mind: revenge and they did it emphatically trouncing the La Roja 5 – 1 in that encounter.
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A lot has changed for the Dutch team in the last four years that make them one of the dark horses to win the World Cup. They might have lost out on three occasions at the finals but you cannot rule them out as been contenders for the cup. Here are a few reasons why the Netherland could end up been winners the 2014 World Cup:
Their Coach
After losing all three group games of the Euro 2012, which was eventually won by Spain, Louis van Gaal was appointed as new coach of the Dutch national team. A very experienced, tactical and disciplined coach, he has a very intimidating profile that would send shivers down the spines of any opposition.
He started out by selecting several young, talented players of the Dutch Eredivisie. This proved to be hugely successful in their qualification as they won nine games and drew just one.
Young talents
The Orange team are one of the youngest in the entire tournament with an average age of 26 years and 170 days. Only seven players who played at the last world cup are in this present team: Nigel de Jong, Wesley Sneijder, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, Dirk Kuyt, Robin van Persie, Arjen Robben and reserve keeper Michel Vorm.
They are not just a bunch of young, inexperienced players. They are one of the very best in their positions and they are ably supported by veterans Robin van Persie, Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder, three players that can kick butt real hard any day.
Team organization
The Dutch national team are a highly tactical and well organized side. While mucvh of the old guard have retired, youngsters are stepping up to take their places. They currently play a more open game while still been in control of the ball.
While the team might be built around Robben, Van Persie and Sneijder, the Oragnge squad has been massively rejuvenated. Coach Louise van Gaal has adopted a new 3 -5-2 system and this suits these three players very well. So the injury to midfield maestro Kevin Strootman, a very key player in a 4-3-3 formation, does not affect them under this new formation. They will field a very compact defence while they have a rock solid midfield and some of the deadliest forwards and wingers.
Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder and Robin van Persie are World Cup veterans who would be too hungry to lift the cup this time around. So whether or not you agree, this might just be the Netherland’s time to win the world cup. The worst mistake any team would make is to underestimate the Dutch team.
