Spain vs. Netherlands Preview, Predictions: Spain Looks For Revenge After 5-1 World Cup Debacle
Spain and the Netherlands will renew their rivalries on Tuesday in an international friendly.
The last two competitive matches between these two nations have been nothing if not transcendent. In 2010 the two sides contested the World Cup final, cementing Spain as the era's most dominant team. And last summer the two sides had a rematch in the first game of Group B.
Spain was a heavy favorite to win the group and seemed to be on its way toward a victory with a 1-0 lead early in the game. But the Dutch had other plans and wound up running away with a 5-1 victory that essentially destroyed Spain's confidence and prematurely eliminated the then-defending champs.
The Dutch would finish third in the World Cup but have struggled since the tournament with a record of two wins, four defeats and one draw. These are surely not the results of a team that nearly scaled the greatest heights last summer.
Meanwhile Spain has tried to overcome its own mediocrity and is coming off a 1-0 result over the Ukraine that saw the best and worst of the team.
It will be interesting to see how Spain coach Vicente del Bosque manages this match. Iker Casillas started against the Ukrainians, but it is unlikely he gets the start against the team that destroyed his confidence last summer. Instead it is likely that David De Gea gets the nod against the Dutch. Also look for youngster Juanmi to get a look as Spain's forwards. Alvaro Morata might also get another look after scoring the winner on Friday.
Another interesting question is whether Del Bosque continues with his 4-5-1 formation which allows him to overwhelm the offensive zone as it transforms into a 2-7-1on the attack. That said, the formation also leaves the team vulnerable on the counter.
Prediction: Spain takes down a struggling Dutch side 3-1.
Start Time: 2:45 p.m.
The game will be televised on beIN Sport USA.
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