The Netherlands take on the USA in the first Round of 16 clash at the World Cup at 3pm (GMT) today, although a worrying bout of flu has affected the Oranje.
Netherlands vs USA flu
Well, Louis van Gaal has been forced to abandon his usual pre-match routine ahead of the crucial World Cup clash with Gregg Berhalter, due to an influenza outbreak.
The 71-year-old told Dutch outlet NOS: “I gave them a day of rest. With this group, they communicate that to me. I listen to my players. If it goes around in the group, it is worrying.”
According to Fox News, the disruption has been caused by high air conditioning at the Netherlands team base.
Van Gaal’s typical pregame routine involves an 11-a-side training game two days before a World Cup clash, in which the 11 who aren’t expected to start attempt to replicate the opponent’s style of play as best as possible.
However, the Dutchman chose to give his 26-man squad a day off on Thursday, causing major disruption to what could be his final game in charge of the Netherlands.
Ronald Koeman is set to take over from Van Gaal after the World Cup.
Fox News add that some Dutch journalists believe as many as six Netherlands players were unable to take part in the most recent training session.
USA could benefit from Netherlands flu
Of course, everybody wants to see a fair, equal encounter at this stage of the World Cup.
However, the USA will be desperate to reach their first World Cup quarter-final since 2002, and disruption to Van Gaal’s pre-match buildup has seen Berhalter’s chances of progressing increase hugely.
It is certain to be a tricky game inside the Khalifa Stadium regardless of the flu outbreak, but the World Cup is a tournament of fine margins, and problems with Van Gaal’s usual pre-match traditions could swing the tie in favour of the United States.
Hopefully, the Netherlands side can still perform to a high standard and create an entertaining spectacle, despite the issues in their camp.
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