Spain's strong midfield play successfully dismantled favorites Germany last week, but can they cope with the striking power of La Oranje? The teams will meet Sunday night in Soccer City to decide the World Champion. Spain have had a series of close encounters to reach this place, having only beaten Honduras on multiple goals (2-0). The European Champions were the pre-tournament favorites and seek their first World Cup star after a convincing performance against Germany on Wednesday.
Netherlands have been waiting a long time for this opportunity; 32 years to be exact. The powerful Dutch teams of the 70's reached consecutive World Cup finals without ever taking home the trophy. They have the striking power to break down Spain's defense, but it is their own defensive performance that could prove their undoing.
World Cup Final: Netherlands vs. Spain
Date: 11 July, 2010 - 20:30 CET
Stadium: Soccer City Stadium - Johannesburg
Referee: Howard Webb (England)
Netherlands:
Keeper: Maarten Stekelenburg
Defenders: Khalid Bouhlarouz, Johnny Heitinga, Joris Mathijsen, Giovanni van Bronckhorst
Midfielders: Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder, Rafael van der Vaart, Mark van Bommel
Forwards: Robin van Persie, Dirk Kuyt
Manager: Bert van Marwijk
Injured: -
Booked: -
Spain:
Goalkeeper: Iker Casillas
Defenders: Sergio Ramos, Carlos Puyol, Gerard Pique, Joan Capdevila
Midfielders: Xavi, Xabi Alonso, Andres Iniesta, Sergio Busquets
Forwards: David Villa, Cesc Fabregas
Manager: Vincente del Bosque
Injured: -
Booked: -
Netherlands have won the last 3 head-to-head matches, but Spain have more momentum being European Champions. Both teams seek their first World Cup title and will leave everything on the field. English referee Howard Webb has been awarded the final after several good performances in this World Cup. Weather is expected to be 17 degrees and sunny.
Last meeting: 27.03.2002, Netherlands - Spain 1:0
Wins Netherlands: 3
Wins Spain: 1
Draws: 0
Both squads are healthy and there is not too much between these teams in terms of performance. Netherlands have exhibited a weak defense in key situations, but have a formidable striking presence. Despite Spain being favorites here, I believe Netherlands can pull off an upset against
La Furia Roja. Draw no Bet seems to be the best option here and there is good value in Netherlands odds.
The best odds to this game you find at
MyBet,
Betfair and
Bet365.
