Netherlands vs Ecuador: Van Gaal’s men to be tested by high-spirited La Tricolor
The Netherlands and Ecuador are looking to secure their place in the next stage of the 2022 FIFA World Cup as they prepare to face off in their Group A clash at the Khalifa International Stadium on Friday.
Both teams won their opening game, putting them in a great position to qualify for the next stage of the tournament respectively.
Louis van Gaal’s side secured an important win against Senegal in their first match but needed a more impressive result in that match to solidify their chances.
With the two teams level at 0-0 heading towards the final whistle, it seemed points would be shared.
Cody Gakpo sent his team ahead in the 84th minute before Davy Klaassen goal on the counter attack secured the win in the ninth minute of added time.
This match will, however, be a much tougher test for Ecuador, who will also face a tough Senegal in their last match of Group A.
La Tricolor’s spirits are high after their 2-0 win over hosts Qatar in the opening match last Sunday.
Former West Ham United forward Enner Valencia scored a double, netting from the penalty spot in the 16th minute before securing victory in the 31st minute.
Valencia suffered an injury to his knee during the clash with Qatar, but the 33-year-old is expected to be available to start this match.
Van Gaal is expected to keep Netherlands’ 3-5-2 formation set to include Frenkie de Jong and Steven Berghuis in midfield, and Denzel Dumfries and Daley Blind in the full-back areas.
While Ecuador did not qualify for the 2018 World Cup and were eliminated in the group stages of the 2014 World Cup, their impressive start in this competition will make for a very difficult match for the Netherlands.
Despite the Dutch being group favourites, don’t rule out an upset against a flying Ecuador side.
The winners of Group A will take on the runner-up from Group B, which could be England, Wales, the USA or Iran.
