Group E - Dutch Disease

In one of the weaker groups at this years tournament Group E pits two time finalists the Netherlands with fellow European representative Denmark. Asian powerhouse Japan rounds out the group along with African side, Cameroon.

Netherlands ($1.15 to advance) – Often seen as the party boys of the world game, the nation that invented ‘Total Football’ has often suffered from the angst of team disunity. We have been told that is no longer the case, but I have heard that one before. An extremely talented side, full of attacking flair. If they work together as one, they can go a long way in this tournament.

Denmark ($2.00) – Surprise European champions in 1992 the Danes are an efficient side who can defend well and attack on the counter – a style they played well in a 1-0 friendly loss to Australia last week. Led by veteran Jon Dahl Tomasson the Danes will certainly have plenty of grit and determination about them, but it is unlikely they have the attack to worry the big sides.

Japan ($5.00) – Probably still seething from there 8 minute meltdown in Kaiserslautern 4 years ago, Japan will be looking for redemption after drawing a much easier group in 2010. Semi-finalists in the 2007 Asian Cup the Samurai’s have plenty of skill and pace up front. As always their weakness will be the highball at the back. Doubt they can escape here.

Cameroon ($2.00) – One of Africa’s great hopes they will be looking to repeat their Quarter-final heroics of Italia ’90. Led by one of the worlds great strikers in Samuel Eto’o, any boost from home continent support could see them go a surprisingly long way in the tournament. However, like any African team it would be no surprise to see them crash out at the group stage.

What 2 Watch 4 – Dutch team unity – keep it together and they have the ability to play almost any other team off the park. If you start to see cracks appearing in team morale – jump ship immediately.

Suggested Investment – In a group of little value my tip would be to back Japan to finish bottom of the group. You should be able to get $1.80.

Prices courtesy of Betfair.