Euro 2008 - Quarterfinals Preview: Netherlands vs. Russia
June 21st 2008 03:00
Two offensive sides that play beautiful football. One coach against his country. That's the story of the Netherlands vs. Russia. Although the Russians were overly dominated in their first group game, they quickly found their bearings to finish in style with a 2-0 win against Sweden. Andrei Arshavin's return from suspension has lifted the team as he brought unparalleled vision to the attack. Now, they look to offer their best possible showing against the strongest team of the tournament.
The Netherlands have had the time of their life. They defeated the World Cup champions 3-0, the vice-champions 4-1, and finished up with their 'B' squad blanking Romania 2-0. Their strength lies in their quick counterattacks just like the Russians. Furthermore, the depth of the Dutch bench gives several options to Marco Van Basten in case he needs to swap strength (Kuyt) for speed (Robben) or taking out a striker (Van Nistelrooy) to fill up the midfield while still keeping their attacking threat (Van Persie).
Both teams rely on the same system. Consequently, experience will be the main factor here. A striker like Pavlyuchenko shouldn't miss as many chances as he had in the group stage because at the other end, Ruud Van Nistelrooy strike at any moment. Defensively, Khalid Boulahrouz has been a pillar of strength while Giovanni Van Bronckhorst has been great at both ends of the field. Still, no one can tell what kind of tricks Hiddink can come up with. It should be an interesting game.
The Netherlands have had the time of their life. They defeated the World Cup champions 3-0, the vice-champions 4-1, and finished up with their 'B' squad blanking Romania 2-0. Their strength lies in their quick counterattacks just like the Russians. Furthermore, the depth of the Dutch bench gives several options to Marco Van Basten in case he needs to swap strength (Kuyt) for speed (Robben) or taking out a striker (Van Nistelrooy) to fill up the midfield while still keeping their attacking threat (Van Persie).
Both teams rely on the same system. Consequently, experience will be the main factor here. A striker like Pavlyuchenko shouldn't miss as many chances as he had in the group stage because at the other end, Ruud Van Nistelrooy strike at any moment. Defensively, Khalid Boulahrouz has been a pillar of strength while Giovanni Van Bronckhorst has been great at both ends of the field. Still, no one can tell what kind of tricks Hiddink can come up with. It should be an interesting game.
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