Mexico vs. Netherlands: 2014 FIFA World Cup Predictions, Schedule and Analysis of Knockout Stage Match
Even though they're scheduled to play against each other in a high-stakes round of 16 game in the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil on Sunday, Mexico and the Netherlands don't have a bitter rivalry with each other, like Brazil and Chile who opened up this year's knockout round with a spectacular game.
But make no mistake: Both of these teams are very hungry.
Mexico has qualified for every knockout round since 1990 but haven't been able to get over the hump. The Netherlands are trying to get back to the Final after losing to Spain in 2010.
Latin Post.com breaks down the teams and predicts the winner:
Mexico
Mexico may have flew a little under the radar because they played in a group that featured Brazil, the host nation and one of the best teams in the world. Mexico's only slip up in the group play was a draw to Brazil. This squad is out to prove to everyone they are a major soccer powerhouse and can finally win the World Cup.
Mexico has only allowed one goal while shutting out Cameroon and Brazil in the process. Mexico has only scored four goals, but the balance offensively runs high as all four goals come from four different players. Mexico's defense, led by Carlos Salcido and Rafael Márquez, make it very hard for opposing offenses to get quality shots on goal.
Netherlands
This Dutch squad has done a terrific job of overcoming a dramatic defeat to Spain in the last World Cup in extra time. It resembles the San Antonio Spurs a little bit, after the way they came back this season to win the NBA title after the Miami Heat's Ray Allen hit the 3-pointer against them in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals. This is the third consecutive World Cup that the Netherlands will be playing in the Round of 16.
The Netherlands comes in ranked No. 15 in the world, while Mexico is No. 20. This offense, coached by Louis van Gaal, has been the most explosive so far in the tournament. The Netherlands have scored a World Cup-leading 10 goals, including five that came against the defending champions, Spain. The leading scorers for the team are Robin Persie and Arjen Robben, who both have three goals each.
The No. 1 ranked offense against the No. 1 ranked defense. What more could soccer fans ask for?
Prediction
Mexico has an outstanding defense and middle field, but the Netherlands are on a mission. If Mexico can halt this high-powered offense, it would be a huge accomplishment. Netherlands win, 3-2.
Where and when to watch
These two teams will play each other on Sunday at 12 p.m. EST on ESPN. The game will take place at the Estádio Castelão in Fortaleza in front of over 60,000 fans. Fans can also watch live stream of the game via the WatchESPN app.
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