The current situation at group B forced the two big names in international football scene, Germany and Netherlands, in "must-win" situation tonight. Thus, constant attacking is what they need to do.
The shocking defeat against Denmark has put Netherlands in danger zone. If they continue to lose tonight, they will be the first team officially out of the competition. A draw would put tremendous pressure on Van Marwijk team in their last match against Portugal.
On the other hand, although a draw is still a reasonable result for Germany, a win ensures Germany's advance to next round, which allows them to prepare manpower and calculate their move for quarter-final.
Therefore, both team will be looking at 3 points in this match. And to do so, they need some changes in their offense, which were not up to par in the first match.
Netherlands and finishing line
In the first match, Netherlands had done what they needed to do to create a real storm. They were dominating the match, having 27 goal attempts compared to Sweden's 3. However, what they couldn't do was converting those chances to goals. It's hard to believe that Netherlands having problem at the finishing line, however the fact that Van Persie, Sneijder, Robben, Affelay or Vander Vaart, Hunterlaar and Kuyt couldn't score a single goal rang a bell.
Van Markwijk, hence, need to inject some motivation and pushing to awaken Netherland's offense, which is considered one of the best this EURO 2012.
Germany and offense formation dilemma?
Except result, Germany did not have a good match against Portugal. Their offense were vague and did not create any significant chance. Oezil was a hard-worker, but his accuracy needs to be improved. Podolski and Mueller were their own shadows when compared to World Cup 2010. Mario Gomez scored, but his role was not strong.
Germany needs some changes, and Joachim Loew has announced that Klose will be in Germany's staring line-up this time, meaning Gomez will be back on the bench. Klose's xperience and his scoring ability will help Germany.
However, Klose is not the only change that we want to see. If Oezil's role is irreplaceable, Podolski and Mueller positions are at the spotlight. From Germany, the experts are calling for the introduction of younger players like Schuerrle and Marco Reus.
Rather than the front line, Leow may need to have some change in the midfield if Schweinsteiger is not up to this match yet. Tonis Kroos, the replacement of Schweini, was not really good and defense but his offense is better.
Our prediction
Overall, we think Germany has a better chance than Netherlands. Even though Netherlands was against the wall, and they must win to stay in the competition, Germany is famous for their stability and discipline. The encounter at midfield is at Germany's advantage, where they were able to shut down Portugal's game play. Netherlands therefore will likely to say goodbye to EURO 2012 after tonight's match
Prediction: Germany vs Netherlands: 2 - 1
Betting Tips
Let's take a look at odds and markets that 36BOL.com offer, shall we.
Germany with (-) 0/0.5 Asian Handicap is our pick tonight at odds 1.136. If you want a bit of risky bet go for Germany (-) 0.5 Asian Handicap.
Fore full details of odds, picks and betting visit 36BOL Sportsbook
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