Can Spain beat Holland to gain control of Group B

The highly anticipated Group B opening match between Spain and Netherlands is set to be a game to remember, with the Netherlands looking for revenge after their World Cup Finals defeat to Spain in 2010. Spain overcame the Oranje in the 116th minute of the World Cup Final, when Cesc Fabregas combined with Iniesta to give Spain their first ever World Cup trophy. It would have been the first time that either team had lifted the trophy, but once again the Dutch side came so close and went home with nothing.

In what has been labelled the Group of Death, both teams will be looking for a victory to aid their chances of progressing; with Chile and Australia also contending for spots. Chile will prove tough opposition and could definitely spoil either teams chances, and Netherlands have never beaten Australia in 3 previous fixtures.

Both teams enjoy possession, and both will press each other high, causing a creative match-up with flair, speed and European skill. Iniesta, Xavi, Busquets, Fabregas, Alonso and Martinez will all compete for a spot in the midfield, whilst Costa, Villa, Torres, Navas, Pedro and Silva could all start up front for La Furia. Assigned the task of countering this attack could be Bruma, Van Der Wiel, Pieters, Janmaat, Vlaar and Heitinga. Whilst this isn't the most experienced defence, they are certainly no pushovers. Sergio Ramos, Pique, Albiol, Alba and Juanfran have Robben, Van Persie, Sneijder, Lens and Van der Vaart to deal with, who will cause just as much trouble as Spain's attack.

DECISIVE FACTOR

Spain: like to control the game and the tempo of the match, with Iniesta, Xavi, Alonso and Fabregas some of the best midfielders in the world. For Spain to win, they will need to control the match and look for Iniesta and Xavi to control the match and create chances. Due to the stunning depth of Spain's squad, the players chosen will also need to gel together to get around the Dutch defence.

The Netherlands are perhaps weakest in defence, and therefore won't want to concede large amounts of possession. It is therefore essential that Van Ginkel, de Jong, and Strootman are working tirelessly to break down Xavi, Iniesta and Fabregas, as well as playing smart football to keep the ball and attack with large amounts of possession. They have the players to counter Spain's midfield, and this game will be won and lost in this key battle.

Final Score Prediction: Spain are favourites going into this match, and are still ranked number one in the world, but the Netherlands will have the under-dog spirit to come back and take revenge for their narrow Final defeat in 2010. 3-2 Netherlands

KEY PLAYERS

Spain: Csec Fabregas is one of the best attacking midfielders in the world, and can play as a striker, a defensive midfielder or even on the wing. Wherever the Barca Boy is deployed, he will be instrumental in breaking open the Netherlands defence.

Netherlands: Arjen Robben has had a blistering season at Bayern Munich, with 18 goals in 42 appearences. He arguably has the best left foot in the world, and can score some brilliant goals from all over the park, as well as whipping in a dangerous cross. He will have to be threatening for the Oranje to have a chance at revenge.

DANGER MAN

Spain: Diego Costa has had another terrific season at Atletico Madrid, with 36 goals in 50 appearances in all competitions. He has just recently sealed a move to Chelsea, and will look to add to his 1 International Cap and convert his club form into World Cup form.

Netherlands: Robin Van Persie's season has been somewhat overshadowed by a poor performance from his club; however the striker found some form in the 2013/14 season and managed to score 18 goals in 28 appearances for his club. He will be a constant threat with his ability to score goals in all sorts of manners.