Costa Rica is the only unexpected entrant into the World Cup 2014 quarter final. They face the European giants Holland on this Saturday. They have reached thus far by eliminating one giant after another. Uruguay and Italy were dispatched easily, while England managed to hold them in an inconsequential match. They won against Greece in penalties, in spite of playing about an hour with just 10 men. Giants do not deter them. The Netherlands must better watch out.

Netherlands-Costa Rica Preview

Netherlands too has reached quarter final after facing some tough opponents. They demolished reigning champions Spain in the opening fixture. Even though they were held in the next match against Chile, they comfortably beat Australia to reach the second round. But against Mexico in the second round, they had their first struggle. They had looked down and out for the first 87 minutes of the match. But by scoring two goals in the last six minutes, including one in the injury time, the Netherlands roared into the quarter finals.

Their strength is a fully loaded attack. Not many defences can hold them off for the entire 90 minutes. It is almost certain that they will score. Costa Rica’s game is built on solid defensive principles. It will be a fascinating battle between the Dutch attack and Costa Rica’s defence.

Netherlands-Costa Rica Players

Robin van Persie had a poor game against Mexico. In fact, since the flying goal against Spain, he has not done too many great things. This is a nice time for him to get into form. Arjen Robben earned a controversial penalty that led to the Dutch win against Mexico. He will be looking to dish out the usual stuff – fast runs, sublime dribbles and realistic dives.

Memphis Depay came on as a substitute in the match against Mexico. But it was his arrival that lent teeth to the Dutch attack. Wesley Sneijder too had a good game against Mexico. The Dutch team will miss Nigel de Jong due to injury.

Costa Rica too will have to play without two of their influential players: Óscar Duarte is out due to suspension and Roy Miller is injured. Costa Rica will hope Christian Bolaños, Joel Campbell and Bryan Ruiz will exploit the weaknesses of the Dutch defence and extend their fairy tale run in the tournament.

Netherlands-Costa Rica Prediction

Dutch teams have a history of struggling in the knock-out stages but not this time.

Netherlands to Qualify 1.20 @ Bet365

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