Uruguay vs Holland – tiny country ready to dent Dutch dreams
Published:With a population of just over 3 million people, Uruguay are a nation used to punching above its weight.
And although they are 11/2 outsiders to beat Holland in tonight’s semi-final, Uruguay will be quietly confident of upsetting the odds.
In four previous meetings between the sides, Uruguay have won three, while Holland enjoyed a solitary victory at the 1974 World Cup.
The last time the teams faced each other, Uruguay were 2-0 winners, and a repeat scoreline tonight is available at 20/1.
Uruguay also have the experience of winning the World Cup, albeit in 1930 and 1950, while Holland have yet to lift the Jules Rimet trophy.
Having required a late winner to beat South Korea in the second round, and a penalty shoot-out to see off Ghana in the quarter-finals, Uruguay could be a threat if the game goes beyond 90 minutes. Uruguay are a very tempting 20/1 to win in extra-time.
Should you choose to back Holland, the half-time/full-time market is an area which offers a lot of value. A draw at half-time and a Holland win at the end of 90 minutes is available at 16/5.
The match promises to be evenly matched, with both sides hit by injuries and suspensions to their defensive players.
Holland are without the banned Nigel De Jong and Gregory Van Der Wiel, and their defensive frailties could be exposed by Diego Forlan, who is 6/1 to score first.
With full-back Jorge Fucile suspended and captain Diego Lugano possibly missing in central defence, Uruguay could also be a little vulnerable at the back.
These defensive absences – and the fact that no semi-final has ever finished 0-0 after 120 minutes – suggest that goals will be forthcoming at both ends, and the draw could be worth backing at 12/5.
Do you think Holland will be too strong? They are 8/13 to win. See the full Uruguay vs Holland market.
