World Cup Final: Holland vs Spain

So the World Cup will be graced by first time winners as Holland enter their third final with Spain making their first appearance in the sport’s showcase event. The Holland side of bygone eras that were known for having style but no substance have been replaced by a sturdy side that takes no prisoners. Mark Van Bommel and Nigel De Jong stay in centre midfield and like to kick the legs off the opposition’s creative players. Dirk Kuyt runs all day while Wesley Sneijder and Arjen Robben provide the moments of class with the aid of Robin Van Persie. This combination makes them extremely hard to beat with their unbeaten run stretching back some 25 games over two years. They made things difficult against Uruguay but emerged victorious after surviving a late rally.

Spain overcame the talented German side with a display of passing that was wonderful to watch. Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta and Xabi Alonso practically owned the ball as the German side engaged in a futile pursuit of it. Ironically, it was the less cultivated head of Carles Puyol that secured the vital win. It is likely that Fernando Torres will be frustrated on the bench as the side looks more balanced with David Villa leading the line.

Holland are $3.75 to win in 90 minutes and that will appeal to many punters with Spain at $2.10 to win in normal time. Unless there is an early Spanish goal, this game is likely to be a war of attrition with Holland’s plan involving a lot of physical contact and borderline legal tackles. Yet Spain are well used to such tactics and have the ability to break down any side. Neither side loses very often so have a look at this game heading to extra time at $3.40. The better passing of the Spanish side will grind down the Dutch who may even have a player sent off as Spain win in extra time at $11 in a tight match. The biggest worry about this game is the fact that Howard Webb is refereeing. If you can get odds on him making a terrible decision then take them!