Cameroon became one of the first teams to be knocked out of this World Cup after they lost out to a brilliant display of counter attacking football from Denmark.
Cameroon played much better than they did during their first game and this was demonstrated perfectly when Samuel Eto’o put them ahead. Eto’o had been moved into the centre of attack and it was clear that he was much happier to be playing in this position.
However, Denmark did not let their heads drop at any point and won the match through goals from Niklas Bendtner and Dennis Rommedahl. Rommedahl in particular was playing extremely well and his pace and movement was just too good for Cameroon to cope with.
Denmark will be full of confidence going into their final group game against Japan, which they must win to qualify and go into the last sixteen with the Netherlands. The side are playing good football and there are many positive elements to take forward.
Denmark
Denmark’s game is all about their attack while they lack a little bit in defence. They have experience and talent up front, which often means the side can steal a goal if the defence can keep out the opposition at the other end.
Bendtner did not have the best of games in a Denmark shirt but he demonstrated his positional awareness and pace when he converted Rommedahl’s cross to cancel out Eto’o’s early opener.
Rommedahl was quite rightly voted as man of the match as he literally owned the right wing. He is capable of bursts of pace, which take him away from an opposition defence and in on goal. His goal was a measure of pure calmness in front of goal and brilliant counter attack football, which allowed him to dink into the far corner to give his side a lead that they never gave up.
Cameroon
Cameroon turned up at the ground looking like a very unhappy squad. However, they played much better football than they produced during the defeat against Japan. The side moved Eto’o into his more favoured position and it was clear what it meant to the side when they went ahead.
However, Cameroon are not tight enough in defence and there are too many gaps between the defenders. This was shown clear when Bendtner burst into space to knock in a low cross that levelled the game.
Cameroon have to go back to the drawing board but they still have a chance to prove what a good football team they are in their last game. They could make the Dutch sweat, who will want to finish top of the group and give themselves an easier second round tie.
Betting Advice
Denmark are favourites to get out of this group with the Netherlands and there was nothing in the game over the weekend that should tell you otherwise. Back them to the hills against Japan because they have the space and quality to beat the Japanese who are likely to show kick and rush tactics.
Rommedahl is a good candidate to score in this match as well as Bendtner who has described himself as one of the best strikers in Europe. Both players are in good form and both will be looking to get into more advanced positions against Japan.
Few people will bet against the Dutch in their final game against Cameroon. There is a danger that both teams could make massive changes to their squads and Cameroon could crumble as they have nothing to play for. Therefore if you fancy a big Dutch win then you may as well go for it.
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