Netherlands to find USA tough nuts to crack
The first knockout game of the 2022 World Cup sees the Netherlands take on the USA at the Khalifa International Stadium in Qatar. Both Louis van Gaal's men and their opponents managed to get through the group stage unbeaten, with the USMNT conceding just once (a penalty to Wales). Whilst far from the most potent side at the other end, the staunch rearguard could make it a difficult time that goes all the way. Read our preview here:
Timber all the way down
Cody Gakpo has well and truly announced himself on the world stage with three goals already to his name in the tournament, but he'll need more telling contributions from his teammates if they're to overcome a stubborn American rearguard. That strategy will start from the three man defence, with the highly rated Jurriën Timber given the task of keeping Christian Pulisic quiet. The 22 year old Ajax stopper has the most difficult job in the likely Oranje XI. There are no major injury concerns, though it remains to be seen whether Memphis Depay will start.
All Wright on the night
Pulisic was cleared to play, so will remain on the left of Gregg Berhalter's 4-3-3. The head coach could restore Haji Wright to the middle of the attack. The focal point of their play against England gave the CONCACAF nation more structure to their approach in the final third, and would help free up the likes of Pulisic and Timothy Weah on the flanks. Josh Sargent is nursing an ankle injury, making him a major doubt to feature at all.
Betting tip
Parimatch have odds of 3.20 for a draw after 90 minutes.
