Maybe not the most popular game for European punters, but it sure is a cracker for those who follow the game for entertainment.
 
The Dutch are a side that ‘should’ be seriously considered as genuine contenders for the WC title. However, much like Spain they almost always seem to flatter only to deceive, and the latest example was in Euro 2008 when they appeared to be on course to lift the trophy through superior displays and bug results in the group stage, only to get knocked out in the QF by Russia.
 
The USA are a side that is almost consistently being underestimated. They are viewed by most European spectators as a side that plays amateur football compared to the European standards, or one that is less in class at most.
 
Apparently this is not true. Throughout the history of the game the Americans have proved to be quite competitive. Now let’s not forget they did beat England in the WC 1950, and while ‘soccer’ may not be one of the top 3 popular sports in the US, it is being practiced by millions and is a major ‘industry’ still.
 
Moreover, players like Tim Howard (Everton keeper), Clint Dempsey (Fulham), Bocanegra, Altidore, Donovan, Edu, Bradley, Davies.. etc, cannot be classed any less that most of their peers in Europe. Maybe the US does not have a player like Messi or Torres or Gerrard in their ranks, but –as a team- they are a strong side, and they proved it in the Confederations Cup when they managed to defeat Spain and took the lead against Brazil for a long time.
 
The American version though is more reliant of an athletic built than on skills. Big bodies and fast running is what the Americans have in abundance, but –again- there ARE some quite skillful players in their ranks.
 
The Dutch are using quite a strong side though, and they are out to prove they should not be overlooked in South Africa as title-winning candidates, but if you expect them to half a walk in the park I think you should reconsider.
 
Picks:
 
Over 2.5 goals