Do or die for Dutch
- Published: 16 Jun 2012 at 17.24
- Online news:
KHARKIV, UKRAINE -- Three-time champions Germany head into Sunday's final group B action with the comfort of knowing a draw is enough to advance to the Euro 2012 quarter-finals.
The Netherlands, meanwhile, are on edge fearing their first group stage exit in 32 years.Leading the group with six points, Germany take on Denmark (three points) in Lviv while the Netherlands (zero points) face Portugal (three points) in Kharkiv."It's very comforting to know that we only need one point win the group," said German defender Mats Hummels.Germany, however, cannot allow a slip-up as a 1-0 or 2-1 loss would mean a Euro 2012 exit if Portugal beat the Netherlands.The only major question for the Germans is who will replace the suspended Jerome Boateng in the backline. The top candidates are Benedikt Hoewedes or Lars Bender.The Danes would move to the knock-out stages with a victory or a draw and a Netherlands win. But midfielder Niki Zimling is fighting toe, calf and thigh issues and may be replaced by Jakob Poulsen in defensive midfield; while Tobias Mikkelsen will fill in for Dennis Rommedahl in attack for the 1992 champions.The Danes at least have their destiny in their own hands.The Dutch go into their do-or-die showdown with Portugal knowing they need a victory by at least two goals and a Germany victory.There is plenty of harsh history staring the 1988 champions in the face....
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