2010 World Cup Scouting: The FinalBy Lawrence Ostlere The 2010 World Cup final in Johannesburg will be the first time Spain and Holland have met in a major tournament. So, with the no history to go by, which factors will be important on Sunday, and where on the pitch will the outcome of the 8th World Cup winner be decided? Style of Play Spain’s short passing style is unique and is generally considered the most attractive brand of soccer at the World Cup. Relying on masterful control of the ball, Spain dominate possession and wait patiently for the right moment to attempt an incisive pass through their opponent’s defence. Whilst the Dutch also have fine technical players on the ball, they adopt a more direct approach. The Dutch are less patient and prefer to move the ball quickly to their attacking players, increasing the tempo of the game. The contrast in styles means Spain would naturally have more of the ball and be able to control the game, setting a pace that suits them. However, if Holland work hard in midfield, they will be able to hurry Spain and increase the game’s tempo. This will help to win the ball from the Spanish so Holland can then move the ball quickly to their biggest threats, Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben, in order to score. This crucial battle to control the ball and the pace of the game will be predominantly played out in midfield. Midfield Battle Both sides adopt a similar system with three central midfield players. For Spain, Sergio Busquets plays short passes and breaks up opponents’ moves, whilst Xabi Alonso has licence to attempt ambitious cross-field balls and shoot from range. However, Xavi is the key. His constant movement allows him to find space whilst his near-perfect touch and pass means he almost never concedes possession. When coupled with his eye to pick out a team-mate’s run, this makes Xavi extremely dangerous, and it is no surprise that he has been nominated for the Golden Ball (player of the tournament). It will most likely be Nigel De Jong’s task to try to nullify Xavi’s threat. De Jong is energetic and destructive and if Spain have the majority of possession, as many expect them to, De Jong’s role will be crucial in winning the ball for the Dutch to start counter attacks. Marc Van Bommel will have a similar role, leaving Wesley Sneijder as the most advanced of the three to create opportunities and score goals. With five goals already in the tournament, Sneijder is vying for the Golden Boot (top scorer) and a good performance from the Inter Milan man is a pre-requisite for Dutch victory. Duels Out Wide Although Kuyt will lack the skill and speed of any other attacking player on show in Sunday’s final, his work ethic is exceptional. He tracked back effectively on several occasions against Germany to stifle attacks, and this commitment could be crucial in restricting Sergio Ramos’ impact. The sub-plot here is that Ramos’ adventurous nature often allows the opposition the chance to counter-attack down that side – something that will suit Kuyt’s energy and willingness to run. The Villa Factor Spain Expected line-up: Casillas – Ramos, Pique, Puyol, Capdevilla – Busquets, Alonso, Xavi – Pedro, Iniesta, Villa. Key substitutes/alternative starters: Fernando Torres, David Silva, Cesc Fabregas. Holland Expected line-up: Stekelenburg – Van Der Wiel, Mathijsen, Heitinga, Van Bronckhorst – De Jong, Van Bommel, Sneijder – Kuyt, Robben, Van Persie. Key Substitutes/ alternative starters: Elia, Van Der Vaart, Boulahrouz.
Lawrence Ostlere is a freelance writer and can be reached at: lawrence.ostlere@hotmail.co.uk |
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