Ok, I voted Holland. Quite simply, they know how to score, defend and hack. Spain has picked up their game, but I don't think they'll have enough to beat the Dutch. And a lot of the Barca fans on the WC thread are getting pretty annoying.
Spain 2 - 0 or 3 - 1 2 reasons: #1 Holland's defense won't be able to cope with Spain's passing. -Did you see goal Brasil's 1st goal against Holland? Xavi/Iniesta/Villa are salivating at the sight of that Holland back line. -Dutch goalie doesn't impress me. Both of Uruguay's goals were iffy. #2 Refs Spain's midfielders are protected since they are darling team. So don't expect refs won't allow Van Bommel to do what he did v Brasil and v Uruguay (without a yellow!). Similarly, Robjen won't get the calls when he flops 4 feet in the air every time somebody breathes on him.
You make good points. But...I only saw one goal on Holland from Brasil. The Dutch back line is tougher than any Spain has faced so far, except Portugal. I think Spain gets a goal, but just one. On the refs, yes the English ref will clamp down on that. But he'll allow Van Bommel and De Jong to make hard tackles a la Premier League...which will slow down Spain. And the flopping clamp down goes both ways. In truth, I just think Sneijder, Robben or Van Persie (I just want to punch him in the eye every time I see him) are game changers and that's what you need in a game like this.
I'm going to guess the game goes a lot like the other games Spain played in this tournament. First half ends 0-0. The game is highly contested. Spain gets that second half goal they always seem to manage but Holland still has lady luck on their side. Spain 1-2 Holland
I voted for Holland/the Netherlands/the Dutch or whatever they are called this week. However I think I'm wrong and Spain should win
Meh. That octopus is only good with a little vinho verde. And don't forget it choked on the Euro final in 08. I think it's a propaganda machine for the betting mafia.
Spain for me, if they play the way they did with Germany nothing will stop them. Eventhough I still think Schneider is the best player in the tournament. So unless Schneider has the game of his life Spain, with a spectacular Pique in the back will handle the F'ng Dutch. Still haven't gotten over their physical play against Portugal 4 yrs ago, so FTD.
It is impressive. But it's gotten every single final wrong. Ok, ok, so he's missed one. Imagine all the money the bookies are gonna make off him on this one...
lets hope we can do better in the Euros [ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHbxRbKOgeo"]YouTube- Joao Francisco - Portuguese Flag[/ame]