The two sides who picked up maximum points in Group A after the first game meet in what could all but confirm their place in the knockouts, should either side manage to collect 3 points.
The Dutch who have progressed through the groups at the last 10 tournaments they’ve competed in, will look to continue this run and reach the knockouts as group winners.
Coming into this game having both won their opening game 2-0, Ecuador extended their unbeaten run to 8 games, with the Netherlands making it 16 without tasting defeat. It’s 3 clean sheets on the bounce now for Louis Van Gaal’s men after failing to keep out the opposition in their previous 6 before that run.
Enner Valencia was the hero for Ecuador against Qatar, helping himself to both goals. He will need to be just as hungry for goals in this one, if he’s going to compete against Virgil Van Dijk and co, in what will be a much greater test for the former West Ham striker.
It’s hard to judge Ecuador on the first game, with Qatar looking way off the mark in comparison to the other 31 nations competing. Netherlands win for me here, although they didn’t look threatening in their opener until the last quarter of the game. Maybe a hint of nerves or maybe a lack of conviction in the final third?
Score Prediction: 2-0
Bet Prediction: Netherlands -1 Goal Handicap
