Cameroon vs Netherlands Match Preview
Cameroon will play for nothing but pride when they face the Netherlands on Thursday night for the final Match-day of the first round.
The Indomitable Lions have been whipped, tamed, and sent back into the den where they came from. Like no other team but Korea DPR so far, the Cameroonians have not recorded a single point. What about tonight? Will there be any consolation for Paul Le Guen’s demoralized troop?
Pride At Stake For Cameroon
Actually, it will be humiliating for “Africa in miniature” to leaving South Africa’s soil without having recorded a single victory. Three losses on the trot would be even more painful to take. Despite having nothing to dream about, Paul Le Guen wants to see his men acting like professionals by making good use of Thursday night’s match against Holland.
“In situations when you’ve been eliminated, it’s hard to get players motivated. But that’s what we need to do,” the former Lyon manager said.
“The players must remember that. Maybe they are disappointed because it hurts. But still, it’s a privilege for them to be footballers. We have to stand strong and do our job.
“We are shocked, following two defeats. But we have the chance of getting our heads up again. We need to fight with dignity and honor. We have to defend the colors of Cameroon until the last minute.”
Netherlands Keeping The Momentum
The Netherlands are already assured of a place in the Round of 16 but this is not a reason for them to relax against Cameroon. The Dutch will play to keep the momentum very much alive.
Arjen Robben may once again be left out from Bert van Marwijk’s starting lineup. The Bayern Munich winger hasn’t tasted 2010 World Cup football yet but could well be given some playing time as a substitute in Holland’s game against Cameroon where pressure has been taken off.
Dirk Kuyt is in a great mood ahead of this encounter and is keen to keep walking with the Netherlands on the good path they constructed since Match-day One.
“No-one can complain about the results we’ve had. Any team would hope to have six points from two games and we have them all. It’s so important to commence a World Cup tournament with good results and then build from there.”
It’s clear that the Dutch will let Cameroon sweat before clinching anything for the sake of their African people.
