World Cup Netherlands

Canada (1-0-1) vs. Netherlands (1-1)

Netherlands and Canada play their third matchup of the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup Monday night.

Netherlands is coming off a 1-0 loss to China and could use a win here in hopes of advancing to the next round. Netherlands isn’t getting much going offensively, as they’ve combined for 14 shots overall and six shots on goal. Netherlands controlled the ball just 40 percent of time against China, and Lieke Martens has the team’s only goal. Defensively, Netherlands has allowed 15 shots on goal, but Sari van Veenendaal came up with eight saves in her last match and gave her country a chance at victory. Netherlands has to get something going on the offensive end in order to pull off this victory. One player who should have a big impact is Manon Melis, who is easily the best playmaker on this team and can’t stay quiet for long.

Canada is coming off a 0-0 draw against New Zealand despite dominating much of the match. Canada controlled the ball for 59 percent of the match and got six of its 10 shots on goal. Canada can’t be thrilled with the one point, especially when it allowed just one shot on goal. Overall, Canada has been on point defensively with just two shots allowed on goal in its first two matches. Canada has also stepped up its physicality, committing 24 fouls and two yellow cards through the first two matches. The problem for Canada is the lack of finding the net on the offensive end, as Christine Sinclair is the only player to score this tournament. Jonelle Filigno should have a breakout game soon, as she’s been aggressive on both ends of the field.

Neither team has done much on the offensive end, so a look at the under is a great possibility. Either way, I find it hard to bet against the home team that’s done a great job on the defensive end and showing balance overall.

The total is spot on, which forces me to go with the home team and Canada in an outright victory. While the chalk never makes me comfortable, Canada has been on of the more consistent teams so far and Netherlands lack of offense is going to continue to haunt them.