Mexico and the Netherlands are separated by nearly 6,000 miles, but come Sunday afternoon, the two great nations will face off in the round of 16. With a win, either Mexico or the Netherlands will advance to the quarterfinals and represent its country with just eight teams remaining in soccer's biggest tournament.
In the meantime, let's have some fun and compare the two countries on and off the field:
Soccer History
Unfortunately, neither the Netherlands nor Mexico has won the World Cup. The Netherlands holds a slight edge, having appeared in three World Cup Finals, but lost in 1974, 1978 and 2010. Mexico has never made it to the finals, but they have made the last six knockout rounds, dating back to 1990.
This will be these two teams' second time facing each other in the World Cup. The first was in 1998, when they were paired in Group E and tied 2-2.
Landmarks
If you're looking to plan a vacation, you may want to keep both of these countries in mind. Both offer not only contrasting scenery, but also historic attractions all across the land. Mexico is probably the most underrated country for historic pyramids. The Pyramid of the Sun and El Castillo are magnificently crafted structures. The Pyramid Cholula in Pueblo is the largest pyramid complex in the world by total area. Sorry, Egypt.
The Netherland is also full of history for the eye to see. The country is full of canals, most notably the Canals of Amsterdam for boat rides. If castles and fortresses are your thing, the Netherlands is the country for you. The Netherlands is loaded with hundreds of castles across the country. Popular castles include the Ammersoyen and the Heeswijk Castle.
Food
Mexican food is like American food -- except a lot spicier.
Mexico has the most famous tacos and peppers in the world. Mexico is also home to some of North America's best beans. The Netherlands is similar to its European neighbors. The biggest difference is the Netherlands' emphasis on wine. Cheese, seafood and potatoes are major foods. The Netherlands (like many countries) relies a lot on farming for its domestic food.
Celebrities
Mexico has done quite well on the big screen. Salma Hayek is one of its most well-known actress. She has been appearing in movies since 1993. Her most notable movies include "Grown Ups," "Once Upon a Time in Mexico," "Desperado" and "Frida." Other famous Mexican celebrities are Diego Luna, Gael Bernal and Edward Olmos.
The Netherlands' most famous celebrities include Carice Houten and Famke Janssen. Paul Verhoeven is a very accomplished Dutch director who directed highly acclaimed movies such as "Total Recall," "RoboCop" and "Starship Troopers."
Economy
Mexico and the Netherlands have large economies and are involved with other countries. Mexico's main exports include automobiles, electronics, iron, steel, and foods and beverages. Key export destinations are the U.S., Japan and China. The Netherlands does most of its business with Europe. Main trade partners include Germany, Belgium and France, with machinery, chemicals and fuels leading the way.
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