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A well-deserved victory for Russia. They were much better, both tactically and physically. You could see that the Dutch players had zero energy left 10 minutes before the end, when the last two Russian goals were scored. Remarkable, because Russia had played a game just 3 days before while most Dutch players hadn't played in 8 days!
They played very well organised, not allowing the key players for Holland to go forward. Playmakers Sneijder and Van der Vaart were completely locked in, while Boulahrouz was given space because he isn't good at building up. The only time Holland could bring any danger at all was via set pieces. Well done Hiddink, exploited the weaknesses of Holland like no other team could this tournament. Edwin van der Sar and Nigel de Jong were the best players for Holland, both players with a defensive role. That really says enough. Arshavin, Pavluchenko, Zhirkov and Kolodin... all brilliant. This game should've been over after 90 minutes had Russia done better in finishing their chances.
So... exit Van Basten, in comes Van Marwijk and we're going to start all over again. 4-3-3 or 4-4-2 or 4-2-3-1? Bring back big players with big egos like Seedorf and Van Bommel (Van Marwijk's son-in-law!) into the squad? etc, etc... Van der Sar will be missed.
Anyway, this tournament has been waaaay too good and entertaining to end up with an all-to-likely Germany vs Italy final. No anti-climax please. Go Turkey! Go Russia! Go Spain!
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