World Cup 2006 Preview - Holland
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World Cup 2006 Preview: Holland
Overview
Since taking the helm of the Dutch national team, Marco van Basten has been as impressive a coach as he was a player. Appointed after Dick Advocaat's departure post-Euro 2004, van Basten transitioned from a low-profile role at Ajax to leading a rejuvenated Dutch squad.
Odds
- Outright Odds: 12/1
- Group C Winners: 13/8
Team Transformation
Van Basten's strategy emphasizes fresh talent over established stars. Icons like Clarence Seedorf and Patrick Kluivert are out, making way for rising talents from the Dutch Eredivisie. Players such as Denny Landzaat from AZ Alkmaar, Dirk Kuyt from Feyenoord, and Ajax’s Ryan Babel have all gained van Basten's confidence. Ajax features prominently with young talents like John Heitinga, Nigel de Jong, Hedwiges Maduro, and Wesley Sneijder, all under 23, competing for starting positions.
Blending Youth and Experience
The mix of promising local players with seasoned veterans like Edwin van der Sar, Edgar Davids, and Philip Cocu, alongside stars like Arjen Robben and Ruud van Nistelrooy, has ignited a harmonious team spirit. This unity was evident as the team scored 32 points in qualifying?"the most of any European squad?"finishing five points ahead in a group containing tough opponents like the Czech Republic and Romania. The only team they couldn't defeat was Macedonia, resulting in two draws.
Key Player: Ruud van Nistelrooy
Ruud van Nistelrooy emerged as a standout during the qualifiers, netting seven goals in 10 matches. Back in favor at Manchester United, he presents a compelling option for the tournament’s top goalscorer.
Tournament Challenges
Historically a strong contender, the Dutch team has yet to clinch the World Cup, despite reaching the finals twice and advancing to the semi-finals and quarter-finals on other occasions. This year's squad is relatively inexperienced, making their path to victory in Germany a formidable challenge.
BetRecommendation
While Holland presents excellent value to win Group C, their lack of experience suggests they're not a safe bet for the tournament win. However, an each-way bet on Ruud van Nistelrooy as the top goalscorer on his World Cup debut could be rewarding.
- Holland to win Group C: 13/8
- E/W Ruud van Nistelrooy as top goalscorer: 16/1
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