With Argentina’s stellar form, it wouldn’t be too surprising if they end up getting knocked out in the quarters by a team that actually attacks them instead of sitting back – think Germany or Brazil. It’s fascinating how different styles of play can counter each other, and that’s one of the reasons why England are so derided (they haven’t even figured out how to play yet).
But back to tonight’s main event – Argentina vs Holland.
If Argentina can beat Holland – a dour 2-1 win will do – you have to bet on their expected quarter-final clash (if Germany beat Sweden and Argentina beat Mexico) with Germany being THE main event for the World Cup. In one sense Holland might fancy ending second, because while they might have Portugal in the second round the winner of that clash will meet with the winner of England vs Ecuador – no matter which way that one goes it will be one of the ‘easier’ contests in the quarters.
Argentina have rested Heinze, Crespo and Saviola – not that it makes much of a difference to the team, with their midfield fully-staffed and Messi and Tevez playing up front.
Holland have rested Robben with Kuyt starting in his place. Both sides are gunning for topping Group C and thus getting an easy second-round tie, but in all honesty Holland wouldn’t mind second place either.
More after the match.
[tags]Argentina, Holland, World Cup 2006[/tags]Add Sportslens to your Google News Feed!
