Another one of the World cup favourites have finally appeared at the finals and have picked up 3 points in their first game of the group against Denmark. An own goal in the opening moments of the 2nd half followed by a simple tap in for Liverpool’s Dirk Kuyt ensured a comfortable victory for the Dutch. Although it was a very routine opening performance the lack of width was certainly a problem and they only started to look really dangerous once the impressive Elia came onto the left wing.
It is assumed Robben will feature in the group but will ideally be left for the knock out stages. He offers what the Dutch lacked today; someone to run directly at players and get them to commit. Although Van Persie sees himself as a lone striker he does not possess the physical attributes to play that role and would be more suited as a support striker or winger. He has quick feet but has never fulfilled his potential due to the number of injuries he has picked up during his career.
Whilst the same can be said for Robben his performances this season have suggested he is finally ready to produce his best at the highest level and on the biggest stage. With Sneijder supplying passing of true genius behind the Dutch front 3 they have the potential to unlock any defence. The Dutch should ease through the group after seeing some of Japan and Cameroon but we will not be in a position to assess their title aspirations until their star performer appears in the tournament.
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