Jamie Ireland
Tonight’s big game sees reigning champions Spain take on Louis van Gaal’s Netherlands in a repeat of the 2010 World Cup final. But keep an eye on for Daryl Janmaat.
Although Spain are one of the favourites for the tournament and most certainly to qualify from Group A, van Gaal is going to try his best to stifle their tiki-taka style.
It is believed that the Dutch will abandon their standard 4-3-3 formation, for a more defensive approach and are expected to field five defenders in a 5-3-2.
It’s clear the new Manchester United manager is looking to close down as much space as possible in the Dutch half and not allow Spain to find their passing rhythm.
One player who has been linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer, Feyenoord’s Daryl Janmaat will have an intriguing role to play tonight.
The Dutch will look to withstand the constant pressure from Spain, and then use their star players like Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder and Captain Robin van Persie to make the difference.
But it could be the 22 year-old operating as a right-wingback, who holds the key to success for the Netherlands.
Jordi Alba, although fantastic going forward, does on occasion leave Sergio Ramos exposed. It will be up to Janmaat to exploit the space left on the counter and look to feed van Persie or Robben running into the channel.
It seems van Gaal rates the defender very highly and could bring him to Manchester after the World Cup but it will be interesting to see how he does against the highest quality of opposition.
Rafael da Silva is currently the only recognised right-back at Manchester United, which is quite shocking considering how often he makes rookie mistakes.
Tonight we shall see if Janmaat is really good enough to be talked about for van Gaal’s new United team next season.
