Group B was always going to be an interesting group, but it is all over with two matches to play as Chile and Holland won both of their games so far, which has led to world champions Spain getting knocked out. These two sides both played effective football against Spain, playing mainly on the counter with both sides having lots of pace in their team. Although they struggled against Australia, which may suggest that they are similar sides. This match will be pivotal in deciding who wins the group, and with a second round match with Brazil on the horizon for second place, both teams will be keen to top the group.
Holland faced a close shave against Australia after the Dutch trailed 2-1 at one stage. They were on the end of a fabulous goal from Tim Cahill, but Robin Van Persie and Arjen Robben scored in their second consecutive World Cup game ensuring Holland of their victory. The Dutch have already earned themselves a lot of admirers for the way they have been playing at this World Cup, and they have a very good chance of doing well in the tournament as long as their level of performance remains high.
Meanwhile their opponents Chile were fancied by many as dark horses for this tournament, but unlike some sides they have managed to live up to their hype with two wins to date. If they manage to top the group, they will have a superb chance of getting far into the tournament. Avoiding Brazil is key for both sides, as neither will want a knockout match against the hosts. However, it is Chile that will have a better chance of toppling the hosts.
Interesting Stats
The Netherlands have won their last four World Cup games in which they have conceded a penalty.
Chile’s side was worth €152m, compared to the Spanish side which was worth €675m showing that the Chileans have great tactics and team spirit.
Key Men
Arjen Robbem
The Dutch forward has already scored three goals at this World Cup and he has a great chance of taking the Golden Boot prize at the end of the tournament. He had another great year at domestic level and this World Cup promises to allow the Dutchman to keep his place among the World’s best. He is averaging 3.5 shots every game at the World Cup so far, and if he keeps that up he will have plenty more opportunities to increase his tally. Louis Van Gaal’s move to Old Trafford has seen interest in the winger increase, but he is likely to want to continue his impressive career at Bayern Munich.
Alexis Sanchez
Alexis Sanchez could become a global superstar at this World Cup, and Barcelona’s attacking trio of Neymar, Sanchez and Messi could be devastating if all are on top form. The Chilean has shown his quality in the opening two matches, scoring once and assisting once, while being a huge threat throughout. He is attracting Premier League interest but it is difficult to see why Barcelona would sell him considering he is becoming one of the best forwards in World football. If he performs on Monday, then Chile have a great chance of topping the group.
Team News
Bruno Martins Indi is likely to be missing with a concussion, while the rest of the squad will be available for selection. Although it is a dead rubber, both teams will be keen to top the group. While Robin Van Persie is serving a one match ban
Chile have a fully fit squad going forward as Arturo Vidal continues his recovery from injury.
Verdict
This match is certainly going to be an intriguing one for the neutrals as both sides have shown themselves to be accomplished units at the World Cup so far. They knocked out world champions Spain between them, and that alone has shown their quality as teams that can compete for the World Cup. Chile have a very weak central defence and Holland have the pace on the counter to really create problems for the inexperienced pair of Jara and Medal. With both sides having some of the pressure taken off them, it really should be a great match. I think it will be a very entertaining draw between the two, with lots of goals.
