India will have their task cut out when they face a mighty Dutch team in world cup quarter finals on 13th November. India topped their pool to reach the quarter final stage whereas Netherlands had to play the cross over match to book their place in the knockout stage.
Head to head battle
The men in orange hold an upper hand over India when it comes to the world cup. The two teams have met for 6 times in world cup history where Netherlands have managed to beat India on 5 occasion whereas one match ended in a draw.
India vs Netherlands in world cup- Netherlands won 5 times | One match drawn
Indian team lead by their charismatic skipper Manpreet Singh will have to battle it out to change the history if they stand any chance to overturn the drought of 43 years of not winning the world cup.
Key players
India
Akashdeep Singh– He is the most experienced striker in the team and in a crunch match, the man from Punjab will be the go to man for India to score. He has been doing the job of the linkman in the world cup but his clinical striking skills may change the fortunes of India.
PR Sreejesh: The wall of India will face a stern test against the skillful strikers of Netherlands. The man from Kerala is often criticized for slowing reflexes with growing age but he needs to put his best foot forward if the hosts stand any chance to challenge Netherlands.
Netherlands
Billy Bakker: The captain of the team guides his troops from the midfield. He is familiar with the conditions in Kalinga stadium having played for Kalinga Lancers in Hockey India League. The skilful midfielder does not hesitate to come forward and score some goals and India needs to ensure to not give him any space in the striking circle.
Jeroen Hertzberger: The lancy forward has been as asset for the Dutch team and is a regular in the team from past 12 years. His quick counter attacks can trouble any team and Indian defenders need to mark him to avoid any danger.
Winner prediction
We consider three factors to predict the winner
1- Experience: India fielded a young squad whereas the Dutch boast of a very experienced team. The knockout games are often nerve wracking which will be a benefit for the experienced Dutch squad.
2- Speed: Indian team boast of some young talents who have speed as an added advantage. The boys in blue will be the favourites if the speed of youths prevail over the experience of Dutch.
3- Crowd support: India have the spectators as their 12th man which is an added advantage. Coach Harendra Singh has said that other teams feel the pressure when full house is chanting and supporting India.
Whatever the history is, but we can’t rule out India when they are playing infront on their home crowd. We will leave the decision on you to predict on whatever factor you think are crucial for tomorrow’s encounter.
Conclusion
It will be a battle between the experienced mid-fielders of Netherlands and young defenders of India. Any team which will have its department clicking will make their way to the semi-final where they will face the defending champs Australia.
