Argentina vs Netherlands Prediction – July 9
Argentina and the Netherlands Play for a Spot in the Final
In what has all the makings of a Classic in São Paulo, the Netherlands meets Argentina for the right to play for the Big Prize. The Netherlands had looked unstoppable in almost every aspect of the game before a somewhat substandard effort last time out versus Costa Rica while Argentina? [ad-1519080]
Netherlands vs. Argentina
Where: Arena Corinthians, São Paulo, Brazil
When: Wednesday, July 9, 2014, 4:00 PM ET
Netherlands vs. Argentina Betting Lines
Argentina pk -150 +150 Ov 2 -110
Netherlands pk +130 +200 Un 2 -110
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They keep riding the Lionel Messi train en route to their first semi final appearance since 1990. Is it a case of the Netherlands peaking too early of will Dutch manager Louis van Gaal have another trick up his sleeve?
Argentina enters the semi-final looking like a team of destiny – it looks like Lionel Messi’s chance to finally shine on the biggest stage. Argentina has been terrific so far in the tournament – both offensively and defensively – tactically prepared and as impressive as any team so far.
Messi has four goals in the tournament and will benefit from the absence of Dutch defensive midfielder Nigel de Jong. Messi has shared the ball magnificently the last two games but could be the guy to net the deciding goal on Wednesday.
Of concern is the injury to arguably Argentina’s second best player Angel Di Maria who is in danger of missing the semi as well. Wingers Ezequiel Lavezzi, maybe Di Maria and/or Enzo Perez will be crucial alongside Messi on Wednesday – Argentina will attack and will need to convert on every chance against a well organized Dutch defense.
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Dutch manager Louis van Gaal has put on a clinic so far in this World Cup. His tactics allowed the Netherlands to role all over Spain in their first match, his move to replace star striker Robin van Persie with Klaas Jan Huntelaar was the difference against Mexico and his move to bring in keeper Tim Krul with seconds left against Costa Rica paid enormous dividends.
There is some talk of the Dutch slowing down as the tournament has worn on – van Persie has now failed to score in his last three matches after exploding with three in the first two games while Arjen Robben although still dangerous has also been held off the score sheet in his last three games as well. But the Netherlands directed 15 shots at the Costa Rican goal and surrendered just three – they totally dominated, winning by the slimmest of margins.
The success of the Dutch had been predicated on a strong attack with a tremendous conversion rate – if they don’t bury their chances the Netherlands will be in very deep against the Argentineans.
The absence of Nigel de Jong could play a large role in Wednesday’s game. Argentina should control the ball and play aggressive – it will be up to the master van Gaal and the defenders to hold Messi and company in check.
Betting Prediction:
It looks like the weather is finally catching up to the Europeans – they have looked tired and a little slower as the tournament has worn on. Tactically there has been no match for Louis van Gaal – his magic has to come to an end sometime!
Look for Argentina to take advantage of a tiring Netherlands squad and to deny the Dutch their second straight Finals appearance. Messi, Messi, Messi!
Pick: Argentina +150 in a close 1-0 game.
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