On Tuesday afternoon in Prague, the Czech Republic and the Netherlands will kick off their Euro 2016 qualifiers. The Netherlands look to have the upper hand in this match, but Czech Republic could pull off an Albania-type performance and upset the Dutch. It all determines what is left on the pitch at the final whistle.
The Netherlands are coming off of a dominant 2014 World Cup performance, as they finished in third place. Head Coach Louis van Gaal easily maneuvered his side through the group stages, and ended it by defeating host nation Brazil by a score of 3-0. A notable game to remember the Dutch by was their routing 5-0 win in the first group stage match -- a replay off the 2010 World Cup Final held in South Africa -- against reigning champions Spain. Leading them to the win, none other than the 'Flying Dutchman' himself, Robin van Persie.
Czech Republic missed out on the World Cup, but can easily make themselves known if they qualify and proceed into the group stages of the 2016 European Championship tournament. A tournament in which Spain won in 2012.
Keys to victory: The Netherlands are stacked with known talent, while the Czech Republic are stacked with average, unknown talent. But don't let them fool you. The Czechs can play some quality football. The Netherlands will need to their best technique in sending in deep crosses, slick through balls, and converting goals when opportunity strikes. The Czech Republic will need to be on their 'A game' if they plan to draw or even win against the Dutch side. Their key is to be aware, and man mark all game. One mistake can lead to a goal for the opposition.
Prediction: The Netherlands will leave Prague victorious over Czech Republic.
Netherlands: 3-0 Czech Republic