Frank Lorenzo
Netherlands (-133) vs. México (+375) (Draw +250)
Mexico will land in Amsterdam thirsty for revenge after being eliminated by the Netherlands at the 2014 World Cup on a controversial penalty kick. The match is on Wednesday, November 12, at the Amsterdam Arena (2:30 p.m. Eastern).
The Dutch squad are favored to win the friendly, listed at -133 in the moneyline, while México is +375, and the draw is +250.
The teams have met five times previously, and Netherlands dominates the series with four wins and one draw. Dutch coach Guus Hiddink may be keen to try some new personnel and tactics against México in preparation for the Netherlands’ next Euro 2016 qualifier against Latvia on November 16. For instance, Ricardo van Rhijn (Ajax Amsterdam) and Jetro Willems (PSV Eindhoven) return to the national squad and Hiddink may want to give them some minutes. Sitting at one win and two losses in the qualifiers, the Dutch will be eager to find a winning combination.
On the other side, the Mexicans will likely see Wednesday’s game as an opportunity for redemption. Mexico’s World Cup loss to the Netherlands was one of the most painful losses in Mexican soccer history. With the game tied at one and under a minute remaining on the clock, Arjen Robben went down easily (and theatrically) in the box, drawing a penalty and sealing the Aztecs’ fate.
The Mexican coach, Miguel “El Piojo” Herrera, is aware of the importance of the match for his squad, and told the media that his team must show improvement.
“We have to face these games in the best way, showing the best individual performance you could give in order to do well in Europe. We have to show that the Mexican team is improving. These games will serve us a lot, and we must demonstrate that there is an upgrade and will be very important for all,” said the coach.
Despite Mexico’s thirst for revenge, bet Netherlands to win at home.
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