What: FIFA 2010 World Cup
Who: Cameroon v Holland (Group E)
When: Thursday 24th June, 2010, at 19:30 UK Time
Where: Green Point Stadium, Cape Town, South Africa
Saving Face
Samuel Eto’o and the rest of the Cameroon squad are devastated that their World Cup campaign has ended so quickly, especially with the tournament being held in their native Africa. Slim losses to Japan and Denmark ensure that Paul Le Guen’s side will at least want to save face and give their home fans something to cheer for in their final match.
Although Cameroon no longer have a shot of reaching the knockout stages, they will likely be putting out a formidable line-up to face the high-flying Holland. Having suffered the embarrassment of losing twice on their home continent, the Africans will certainly want to go out with their heads held high.
One Eye on the Knockout Stages
Holland have cruised into the knockout stages with minimum fuss, dispatching of Denmark and Japan to ensure their final group match is nothing more than a warm-up for the next round. Although the Dutchmen have eased past the competition in their group, they have yet to show the devastating attacking form that has become expected of them.
The idea of the Oranje possibly reaching another level should be a scary thought for their last 16 opponents. And with coach Bert van Marwijk likely to rest his key players against Cameroon, the Dutch will head to the knockout stages fresh and ready to make a real push for the World Cup.
Recent form
Cameroon:
Serbia 4-3 Cameroon (05/06; Friendly)
Japan 1-0 Cameroon (14/06; World Cup Group E)
Cameroon 1-2 Denmark (19/06; World Cup Group E)
Holland:
Holland 6-1 Hungary (05/06; Friendly)
Holland 2-0 Denmark (14/06; World Cup Group E)
Holland 1-0 Japan (19/06; World Cup Group E)
Players to watch
Cameroon – Samuel Eto’o: Although admittedly disappointed at his dismal World Cup campaign with Cameroon, the Inter striker will want to take advantage of a chance to give the African fans something to cheer for. His proven goalscoring ability will always be a threat to any defence.
Holland – Wesley Sneijder: The Inter midfielder has carried his magnificent club form into the World Cup, proving to be the focal point of a dangerous Dutch attack. His ability to distribute the ball and create chances has been the foundation from which the Oranje operate, rendering him invaluable.
Match prediction
Despite already securing their place in the knockout stages, Holland manager Bert van Marwijk will want to ensure his side keep their momentum going into the last 16. He will be resting some key members, especially those carrying knocks, but regardless of the starting XI put out, the Oranje will still prove too strong for a slumping Cameroon.
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