Spain v Netherlands

Barely 24 hours into the tournament and we already have our first bodacious tie. Brazil has already provided us with numerous contentious issues and most importantly, plenty of goals. Hopefully the South Africa's finalists can provide us with more of the same, minus the controversial incidents.

Tonight sees a rematch of the 2010 Final in which 14 players were booked and, astonishingly, Johnny Heitinga was the only player to be sent off. I'm quite sure you all know the outcome of that night, but the Netherlands will be out for revenge. With Robin Van Persie leading the attack, let's take a look at where the main threat will come from in this talented Dutch side.

No one can argue that Manchester United's Robin Van Persie will have an impact on Dutch progress in the tournament. He is definitely in with a shout of receiving the Golden Boot. He has the ability to score goals out of nothing, and is a real asset to the Dutch. Another player that cannot go without mention is Arjen Robben. He is arguably the most predictable player in world football, yet the most difficult to stop, particularly if he is deployed on the left. The main attacking threat will come from Van Persie, Robben and Galatasaray's Wesley Sneijder.

The midfield will be need to be a lot more disciplined than 2010, if they want to shut down Xavi, Iniesta and Silva. As we all know, they aim to control the play and the tempo of the game. If they close the Spanish playmakers down and give them limited time on the ball, then the game is there for Holland to grab it by the scruff of the neck.

Albeit they were in a difficult group, The Netherlands will be hoping to make amends to a disastrous Euro 2012 campaign. It is often the case that the Netherlands have world class talent at their disposal however disruption in team harmony has led to them crashing out early in competitions. With fresh blood coming through in Memphis Depay, Bruno Martins Indi and Jordy Clasie. This could be their time to shine and show case their talent to the rest of the world.

Holders, Spain will be right up there in the latter stages of the tournament. Most of the players from the Euros in 2012 are at this tournament, but the most notable inclusion is that of Diego Costa. In 2012 it was common for them to play Cesc Fabregas as a false nine, which caught the opposition off guard. With Costa's inclusion, it will be interesting to see whether they deploy this tactic once again, or go with an out-and-out striker. In my opinion, this will be more of a help than a hindrance as it will give them a Plan B, something which may benefit them in the later rounds. 

This Spanish team have the ability to score goals, but they have also the ability to concede. When Jordi Alba bombs down the left, it may leave gaps at the back, and particularly in the tropical climate, he may struggle to get back. They may have defensive worries, but they do play very attractive football, as highlighted in previous tournaments. We all hope for more of the same in this tournament.

As for my prediction, a 1-1 draw is looking a good shout, as neither team will want to lose their opening game. It will be a cagey affair as a loss would be a colossal blow to their hopes of qualifying in pole position.

90% of people will be sitting throughout the Mexico v Cameroon match with much excitement. The other 10%, are lying. 8pm is the kick off time, so be there or be square.