Holland boss Bert van Marwijk has been quick to try to use a psychological edge ahead of his side’s World Cup quarter-final tie with Brazil (Holland 16/5, draw 11/5, Brazil 20/21).
Van Marwijk says that although his side will generally be seen as the underdogs for the last-eight clash, it is vital that the players believe that they can win (7/1 to win the World Cup outright).
Holland have won all four of their games so far, the latest coming in Monday’s 2-1 success against Slovakia.
“I’m looking forward to this match,” said Van Marwijk.
“Against Brazil, perhaps we might be the underdogs for the first time in South Africa.
“But we are here for one reason, to get the big prize. We have to believe in it.
“People might have laughed at us when we said we were capable of winning the World Cup.
“But you have to show a real mentality, a constant focus. I think we are showing that.”
The Dutch have shown plenty of flair in attack, coupled with strong defensive displays.
“In all of the matches we have played so far, we have shown that we can control a match,” added Van Marwijk.
“We have scored seven times. We have been able to show how good we play.
“I think that our defence has done a wonderful job so far. We have conceded just two goals.
“(John) Heitinga, Giovanni van Bronckhorst and our goalkeeper (Maarten Stekelenburg) have done a great job.
“I think we are improving in every aspect but I would like to see everything converge into one match.
“We simply want to win and I don’t think we are doing such a bad job.”
The return of Holland’s talisman, Arjen Robben, against Slovakia was key for van Marwijk’s side as he showed after scoring his team’s opener against the Slovakians.
“It was important that he played for 70 minutes,” said Van Marwijk.
“I think he has just passed that fear factor, having recently returned from injury.
“It’s great news to have Robben fit.”
“Brazil is a very mature team,” van Marwijk said.
“They have stability. That is what they convey.
“I have talked about our positive form but we shouldn’t get too big-headed.
“The Brazilians also convey this confidence, it is almost like they are invincible.”
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