HOLLAND versus Spain going head-to-head in the biggest showpiece of them all throws up the prospect of a feast of free-flowing football and a number of fascinating individual battles.
For the purists, it’s the ultimate final as, arguably, the two most successful nations never to have won a World Cup lock horns. But where will the game be won and lost and who will contest the key battles. Let’s take a look.
THE VILLA EFFECT
Heitinga has had a fantastic World Cup, leading a Dutch defence which was questioned by many before the tournament. Villa is on top form and the main threat, but often lacks support.
PLAYMAKERS
The key area. Both are huge influences and in magnificent form. Xavi is a pass master with a great work ethic, Sneijder cute with tremendous vision. Whoever comes out on top could tip the balance.
DUTCH THREAT
Robben is a huge threat, cutting in from the right flank with pace and can expose Pique, who showed against the Germans he has a habit of drifting wide and
leaving holes in the centre of defence.
