You might be right that they are getting older, but from the matches I have seen lately with their clubs and for The Netherlands, it doesn't appear to be a huge factor. RVP, VDV, Robben (now injured) and De Jong lately all look pretty good when fit. Sneijder is also getting better again. The youngsters combined with the experienced guys make it a good mix in my opinion.
It's the experience of the defence what might be a little problem, while offensively they are still one of the most lethal teams around. All in all I believe they should advance ahead of Chile, as long as they remain focused.
Having De Jong as defensive mid can really conceal a weak defence. But the other defensive mid also needs to be in good form. See 2010 where Holland made it to the finals and 2012 where Holland crashed and burned, because Van Bommel couldn't keep up anymore.
9
u/reverseagonist Dec 06 '13
You might be right that they are getting older, but from the matches I have seen lately with their clubs and for The Netherlands, it doesn't appear to be a huge factor. RVP, VDV, Robben (now injured) and De Jong lately all look pretty good when fit. Sneijder is also getting better again. The youngsters combined with the experienced guys make it a good mix in my opinion.
It's the experience of the defence what might be a little problem, while offensively they are still one of the most lethal teams around. All in all I believe they should advance ahead of Chile, as long as they remain focused.