The Netherlands did what they had to, by beating Denmark, and with a win today logic says they will have secured their qualification to the next stage. Japan also hold 3 points, since they beat Cameroon in their first match.


Holland - Japan.

 The Dutch found it a little harder than expected, but they managed to get a 2-0 win. After the first goal, things got a little easier. A team that wins, does not change, and it might be a good thing that the team is not yet on fire, since they will have to hold on to their strength for harder opponents. Again, Robben will not play, with Elia or Van der Vaart taking his place. Nevertheless, the Dutch held the ball (57% possession) and this is what they will do today too. Having a squad that is better than the Japanese in every aspect, all they have to do is to play their game.

 The Japanese celebrated a great victory but that will not be enough to take them to the next round. Of course, they hold better chances than Denmark. Defender Konno is doubtful for today. Against Cameroon they did great, since they stopped Eto'o, but Holland have much more numerous solutions in  terms of players. They are expected to play defensively, with a 4-5-1 today and try to ruin the Dutch game. For a team that focus on their players' stamina, going against a team that hold the same advantage, things become tougher. The Japanese will be able to do things from the right wing and Okubo will prove to be an important player.

Probable line-ups:

Holland (4-2-3-1): Stekelenburg - Van der Wiel, Heitinga, Mathijsen, Van Bronkhorst - Van Bommel, De Jong - Kuyt, Sneijder, Van der Vaart(Elia) - Van Persie

Japan (4-5-1): Kawashima; Komano, Nakazawa, Tulio Tanaka, Nagatomo - Abe, Endo, Honda, Hasebe, Matsui - Okubo (Okazaki)

Selection: Things are tough for the Japanese, while Holland are expected to show off their strength and secure their qualification. HOME WIN (1).