World Cup Updates: Mexico Prepares for Netherlands Powerhouse

After the group stage is done, most people assume that they more competitive soccer will be in the round of 16. Eight times out of 10 that is the absolute truth but tonight's first match between the Netherlands and Mexico might be a blowout.  

Even though both teams have performed incredibly well up until now there are proportions that need to be taken into account when speaking about their respective success.  Mexico made it through with 7 points beating Croatia and Cameroon but drawing with Brazil. The Netherlands were not fazed in even one game as the 2010 World Cup Runners Up destroyed Chile, Australia and the winners of the 2010 World Cup Spain whom were ousted after a terrible 2014 campaign.

Playing for Keeps

The Dutch want redemption and this could be the very tournament to do so.  They should be able to breeze past Mexico but cannot take them for granted as they are playing excellently well this year.  

Mexico should be at full strength for the match tonight and one player that they need to keep in top form is 35-year-old Rafael Marquez. The legendary Mexican all-star has scored in 3 different World Cup's and has won a Man of the Match this year.  

The problem for Mexico is that the Netherlands are also at full strength and even have star striker Robin Van Persie back after his second yellow card against Australia had him on the bench against Chile.  Holland's attack is unmatched by any other team with names like Robben, Sneijder and Van Persie which is one of the biggest and best trios in soccer to date.  

Following the match against Chile and before the round of 16, Arjen Robben commented, "There was a lot of passion on the pitch, we defended really well, I am proud of the way the team defended.  I think we did a great job and this is not where we want to stop. It is a fantastic result and a fantastic performance and we don't want it to end here.  We need to change our mindset as we want to move forward."

It will be a wild ride for Mexico but lets see if they can hold on tonight against the Netherlands.