Take a punt on dark horses Holland to ruffle a few feathers in the “Group of Death” that also includes big guns France and Italy.
Totesport rate Marco Van Basten´s men as 9/4 third favourites to come out on top but with an offensive line up of Arjen Van Robben, Robin Van Persie and Ruud Van Nistelrooy they are more than capable of rocking the French and Italians.
As well as posing an immense goal threat, Van Basten appears to have strengthened the Dutch up at the back. They only conceded five goals in 12 qualifying matches, which is some effort.
The Dutch get their campaign off against notorious slow tournament starters Italy on June 9 which could well play in their favour.
Italy, as ever, must be respected but it should be noted that Roberto Donadoni´s side have at times struggled to adapt to the new 4-3-3 formation as opposed to the traditional 4-4-2.
And up front the Azzurri look vulnerable in the absence of a reliable foil for striker Luca Toni. Antonio Di Natale would be the preferred choice but injury doubts persist.
France are the other obvious danger to Holland´s hopes but their ageing defence, which lacks pace, will be tested to the limit against the Dutch in their game on June 13.
Romania complete the group but their lack of big recent tournament experience will be their undoing against illustrious opponents who have seen it all before.
Coach Victor Piturca picked an incredible 39 players in qualifying and is still undecided on his best starting 11.
