After the humiliation that was the Semi Finals against Germany, Brazil has another helping of Europe's best against the Netherlands tonight.
The Brazilian team was based around one player, apparent after the blowout World Cup semi-final game on Tuesday night against Germany. The long-time manager of the Brazilian men's team, Scolari, made a critical error prior to the World Cup by putting all his eggs into the Neymar basket. After a grueling injury, Neymar is expected to be out for the next 4-8 weeks.
3rd Place Thriller
All bets are off for tonight's World Cup third place game as Brazil battles the Netherlands. Both teams are coming off tough losses - Germany's blowout of Brazil and Holland's heartbreaking loss in a shootout Wednesday night. Throughout the tournament, both the Dutch and the Brazilians have shown two different sides - often playing amazing soccer but also having mediocre games.
Team Brazil could be out of this match even before it starts. Coming off a 7-1 might be tough, but also might be a wake-up call to play some amazing soccer. The home team could come out firing hot or could be playing a defensive game due to the weapons on the Dutch side.
Turning to the Dutch, Robben and Van Persie were not in top form in the semifinal. Van Persie was taken out of the game late and Robben was ineffective, with only a few shots at the Argentinian goalkeeper. Sneijder played a solid game, even after being kicked in the calf he continued to play exciting, innovative soccer.
Keys to Victory
Holland might have the edge in this game. Brazil's mental readiness is questionable and appeared shocked without Neymar, who seems to have held the team together. The good news is that Silva will be back after his yellow card kept him out of the semis.
The Dutch will be coming out to impress tonight, firing on all cylinders trying to take advantage of the Brazilian breakdown and to core often and many times over.
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