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Written by Tom Cremins.

After two games, the Netherlands have utterly confounded the experts
and turned the “Group of Death” on its head. Against the odds, they
have dispatched both of the World Cup finalists, scored seven goals
and conceded just one. All while playing some of the most compelling
soccer of the tournament.

Friday’s stunning 4-1 victory over France, with goals from Dirk Kuyt,
Robin van Persie, Arjen Robben and man of the match for the second
time in a row Wesley Sneijder, wins the group for the Netherlands.
They can look forward to a quarter final tie against the runner up
from Group D, either Russia or Sweden. That’s a game that they will go
into as strong favourites.

Already, comparisons are being drawn with the “Total Football” of the
’70s. The magic formula for the Dutch was to ingeniously combine
creative individuality and tireless teamwork. Players supported each
other and covered each other’s positions, along great fluidity of
play. This was done within the framework of the 4-3-3 formation, which
was ideally suited to that style of play. This has been updated by
coach Marco van Basten, who has preferred the more orthodox 4-4-2 in
the past, and is now making use of the increasingly popular 4-2-3-1
line up. But it is still as thrilling to watch, and is delighting the
huge contingent or tangerine clad fans that follow the Oranje army’s
march through the tournament.

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Written by Tom Cremins

Euro2008TV.com

Based on their opening day performances, the advantage would seem to be with the Dutch camp ahead of Friday’s match against France in the Stade de Suisse Wankdorf, Berne. Kick off is at 8.45 pm local time, 2.45 EST. The Netherlands put three goals past the current world champions in the same venue earlier in the week and that should do wonders for their confidence, and help settle nerves before their next game.
The French on the other hand laboured against a resolute Romanian team and failed to show the guile necessary to defeat an opponent that was clearly playing for a draw. But let’s not underestimate the Romanians. They have some very talented players, are well organized and will doubtless give a good account of themselves when they take on the Italians and Dutch.

France have considerable depth in their squad, and if Thierry Henry and Patrick Viera are back in the starting line-up, then they should show a marked improvement in their play and pose a more coherent threat to Holland than the Italians did on Tuesday. And in Bayern Münich star Franck Ribéry, France have a midfielder capable of turning any game on its head.
The Dutch on the other hand have more injury worries to be concerned about. Arjen Robben (read full article…)

The first upset of the tournament occured today when an innefective and deflated Italian side were battered by the highly energetic, tactical Netherlands. Italy’s missed a few chances which may have turned the fate of the game around, but lady luck was definitely shining on the Dutch. Holland destroyed Italy 3-0 over teh 90 minutes, but it was during a 5 minute period in the 1st half which brought them the victory. Italian keeper Buffon also made some terrific saves and Italy did have their chances, but today it was all orange.

Holland are in pole position to qualify after France’s impotent draw with Romania, but World Cup holders Italy - even in defeat - suggested they can still go through from this tough group.

Written by Tom Cremins
Euro2008TV.com writer

Both the Netherlands and Italy are beset by injury problems going into tomorrow’s group opener in Berne. Italy are without the hugely influential central defender and squad captain Fabio Cannavaro, who injured his ankle in a training session shortly after arriving in Austria and will miss the entire tournament. This could be a potentially devastating loss as Italy relied on his leadership qualities as well as his defensive skills. The Azzurri could also be without Christian Panucci, who is struggling with a knee problem.

Holland also have their fair share of worries, as winger Arjen Robben is out of the game after picking up a groin injury during training on Saturday.

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