Their opening match against Spain was a fine example of how teamwork can overpower quality as the Dutch side demolished Spain by a 5-1 score line. Much of Netherlands’ fine form has also been down to some amazing tactics by Manchester United bound Louis Van Gaal who switched to a 5-3-2 formation from his traditional 4-3-3 and the strategy has worked wonders for his side so far.
For the delight of the Dutch and their fans the formation has brought out the better of their two star players Robin Van Persie and Arjen Robben. Van Gaal’s defensive 5-3-2 setup ensures stability at the back and further allows the Oranje to punish teams on counter. Arjen Robben’s pace has come handy here whereas Van Persie finds it easier to discover space behind the opposition’s defensive line.
Whereas the formation has worked wonders most of the time, when it has not Holland’s astute manager has a plan B. Van Gaal has been seen switching to 4-3-3 from time to time in between games something which has worked out well for his side.
However teams have now found out a way to limit the threat posed by Van Persie and Robben something which was evident in Holland’s matches against Australia and Mexico. The socceroos were adamant to sit deep and protect their lines limiting the space available to Holland’s prolific duo, as a result of which the Dutch were unable to enjoy much delight in opposition half especially in the last 45 minutes.
Mexico adopted a similar strategy after taking a lead and frustrated the Dutch side for long periods. However on both occasions Van Gaal’s tactical brilliance came to the rescue and on both occasions it was Holland who emerged victorious.
However Van Gaal and his men must bear in mind that Costa Rica a team which has been very impressive in the World Cup so far will be much more resilient in their resolve. La Sele are expected to adopt a strategy very similar to that used by Mexico and Australia, only that unlike Holland’s last two opponents Costa Rica can very well succeed doing so.
Costa Rica similar to Holland use a counter attacking strategy something which has helped them come so far in the competition. They used the tactic in the first round when they succeeded in a group which comprised of the likes of England, Italy and Uruguay and Jorge Luis Pinto made use of the same strategy to score a massive win over Greece in the Round of 16. It will definitely not come as a surprise if the Central American side once again adopt a defensive strategy and look to strike back on counter in their next match.
For Netherlands a 5-3-2 formation relies a bit too much on the likes of Van Persie and Arjen Robben but is largely ineffectual when opponents are resolute in defending deep. A 4-3-3 formation on the other hand provides the team with more options upfront and thus through patient build ups allow Holland to break up the opposition sooner than later.
Thus in order to avoid a boring stalemate Van Gaal will be looking to start with a 4-3-3 formation in response to Costa Rica’s defensive tactics. This means that other players in the Dutch squad will need to step up and Holland cannot entirely depend on Van Persie and Robben for goals.
Netherlands have looked very solid so far in all departments but have struggled against defensive teams. On Saturday they might encounter their worst nightmare but excellent teamwork can once again ensure them success and guarantee a place in the last four of the competition.
