Holland
Tactics
Under pressure from some of his key players, Marco Van Basten has switched from Holland’s traditional 4-3-3 to 4-2-3-1, more suited to international competition.
Defence in a mix
Van der Sar is the undisputed No 1 keeper, with Stekelenburg his understudy. Holland’s main problem is their defence, with only centre-back Heitinga looking assured of his place. His shaky partner, Mathijsen, is often criticised, and while Van Basten has other options in Ooijer and Bouma, he hasn’t found the right mix yet. At full-back, Melchiot (right) and De Cler (left) will probably get the nod, with Ooijer and Bouma as cover. De Zeeuw (right) and Van Bronckhorst (left) will play in the midfield holding positions, although De Zeeuw could be replaced by Landzaat, Seedorf or even Sneijder.
Creative switch-around
The three creative midfielders (Van der Vaart, Van Persie and Sneijder) are given licence to switch positions, which they often do, and link with the lone striker (Van Nistelrooy). If Van Basten wants to field players who maintain their position, he could use Afellay (right), Robben (left) and Seedorf.
Huntelaar provides cover for Van Nistelrooy. Vennegoor of Hesselink will be used as a target man if Holland are chasing the game.
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