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Our next match preview will kick off the knockout stage with Group A winner, Netherlands, battling Group B runner-up, USA. This will be the first competitive match between these two nations. Neither team was defeated in the group stage. Both teams are playing in their first World Cup in eight years, adding to the meaning behind this match.
With the conclusion of group play, we now have a concrete picture of each team's path to a world title. The team at RotoBaller has you covered for all your World Cup needs. We'll bring you DFS articles, game previews, and betting picks throughout the competition.
Before you read on, remember these essential things: Betting on sports should be fun. If you aren't having fun with it, stop. And never bet what you can't afford to lose. Follow the team on Twitter (@LucidMediaDFS, @PhilOfSports, @EuanOrYouOut, @df_solutions, @Mark_Kieffer, @RichKingFF, @Baseball_Jimbo, and myself, @wagmifantasy), and reach out to any of us if you ever have any soccer questions or need advice on any of this.
USA Team Breakdown
The Americans entered this tournament as an overlooked team that needed to mature more before competing with the contenders. Team USA demanded the field's respect when tying fifth-ranked England during group play. The USA is likely to operate with a 4-1-2-3 formation.
Strengths: The midfield trio of Juventus's Weston McKennie, 20-year-old Yunus Musah, and captain Tyler Adams has surprised many in this tournament. These three, nicknamed 'MMA', have been a gritty and electric group that can keep the USA competitive with any team. We can't overlook star winger Christian Pulisic when talking about Team USA's strengths. Pulisic bagged the game-winning goal for the USA in their last game against Iran.
Weaknesses: The absence of a dominant striker has handicapped the Americans' attack. Starting striker Josh Sargent is expected to miss tomorrow's game, forcing Team USA to rely on Brenden Aaronson, Jesus Ferreira, or Haji Wright up top.
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Netherlands Team Breakdown
The Dutch were heavy favorites to win Group A and delivered, totaling seven points in the group stage, with their lone tie coming against Ecuador. The Netherlands is vying for their sixth finish inside the top-four at the World Cup, with a third-place finish in 2014 serving as their most recent. The Dutch operate in a 3-4-1-2 formation.
Strengths: Virgil Van Dijk is the backbone of this team. The Liverpool center-back is the central piece of the Netherlands' defensive line. There are few center-backs that can control a game quite like Van Dijk. Center-mid Frenkie De Jong is playing his best soccer yet, tallying a goal and an assist in the group stage. These two key cogs make the Dutch a difficult matchup through the middle of the field.
Weaknesses: Netherlands produced just eight shots on target in their first three games. Despite having a strong striker duo with Memphis Depay and Cody Gakpo, the Dutch have struggled to produce many offensive opportunities.
USA vs. Netherlands Prediction
This matchup will be a defensive standoff, as both teams have allowed only one goal so far this World Cup. USA's attack and defensive lines are much less imposing than the Netherlands'. Gakpo and Depay are much more efficient with their opportunities than whoever the USA sends up top. Another heroic effort is required for the Americans to advance.
Score prediction: Netherlands 1 - 0 USA
