Euro 2012 Match Preview: Germany vs Netherlands.

Today the world shall witness the clash of the giants at the Metalist Stadium. The 2010 World Cup runners-up will take on the semi-finalists. The second match for both teams in the Group stage of the Euros is expected to showcase some memorable moments. Netherlands are in a do-or-die situation after an unexpected loss to Denmark. They must win this match. Germany, meanwhile, have won their first outing against Portugal. Though it was by just one goal, it ensured Die Mannschaft earned all three points from their opener

Germany coach Joachim Loew.

Previous Game of the Euro:

Netherlands:

The Netherlands were very poor in the final half of their opening match against Denmark. They had posession but couldn’t finish the game off. They were accused of selfishness among the players, with most critics pointing fingers at Arjen Robben. Van Persie had a day to forget as he squandered far too many chances. Krohn-Dehli’s strike condemned Netherlands to a shock but fully deserved loss.

Krohn-Dehli’s strike.

Germany:

Germany had to overcome yet another Group B favorite in Portugal. Cristiano Ronaldo-led Portugal couldn’t defeat Joachim Loew’s men as the Germans worked very hard to earn themselves a win, courtesy of a lone Mario Gomez strike. Gomez, who was chosen over experienced Klose, was about to be substituted when he scored the goal. This win brings them to the top of Group B along with Denmark.

Mario Gomez scores the lone goal against Portugal.

International Friendlies:

Germany:LLW

Netherlands:WLL

Head to head:

Netherlands have played Gerany 39 times. Germany lead with 14 wins. The Dutch have with 10 and 14 draws.

Probable Lineups:

NETHERLANDS

Stekelenburg; Van der Wiel, Heitinga, Vlaar, Willems; Strootman, Van Bommel, Robben, Sneijder, Afellay; Huntelaar

GERMANY

Neuer; Boateng, Hummels, Badstuber, Lahm; Khedira, Kroos; Muller, Ozil, Podolski; Gomez

Bert van Marwijk could prefer Strootman over Nigel De Jong in holding midfield. Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, the Bundesliga top-scorer, might be preferred over Premier League top-scorer Robin Van Persie. Afelley could be replaced by Dirk Kuyt.

German coach Joachim Loew could start with the same defence that he employed against Portugal. Tony Kroos could replace Bastin Schweinstiger alongside Sami Khedira. Mario Gomez might get a nod over Klose yet again as the coach is concerned over the fitness of the latter.

There has been discontent in the Netherlands camp as vice-captain Van Der Vaart was unhappy over the team selection by the Dutch coach Bert van Marwijk in their match against Denmark. Nigel de Jong and Klas jan Huntelaar were also reportedly dejected.

Bert van Marwijk with Robin Van Persie

Key players:

Mesut Ozil has been the heart of German attack. His impeccable passes allow the strikers to break through and strike. His vision is just great and he has great intelligence.

Mesut Ozil

Wesley Sneijder was credited as the best player on the field in the loss to Denmark. He tried hard to break the Danish defence but a number of his passes were wasted by Arsenal striker Robin Van Persie. The Inter star has been in scintillating form for his country.

Wesley Sneijder

Impact of the game:

It’s a do-or-die situation for the Dutch. They must win this game to have any chances of staying in the tournament. Germany, on the other hand, could again be at the top of Group B if they win it. Netherlands will certainly not play for a draw and could play an attack minded game. This will make the match more interesting.

Prediction:

I would predict a 1-1 draw as it is a do-or-die situation for Netherlands but the Germans cannot be underestimated under Jogi Loew.

Do leave your predictions in the comments section.