WORLD CUP USA ’94 / THE FIRST ROUND : TODAY’S GAMES AT A GLANCE
GROUP F at Citrus Bowl, Orlando, Fla.
The Netherlands vs. Morocco
* TIME: 9:30 a.m. PDT
* TV: ESPN, Univision
* KEY MATCHUPS: Dutch Coach Dick Advocaat was still tinkering with his lineup a day before the game his team must win or tie to avoid the disgrace of first-round elimination. Judging by the squads in Tuesday’s scrimmage--and by players’ comments afterward--he might use as many as five midfielders today and perhaps only two forwards. The four-forward, three-midfielder, three-defender formation he used in last Saturday’s 1-0 loss to Belgium produced many scoring chances, but top scorer Dennis Bergkamp couldn’t finish them off. Marc Overmars, who started against Saudi Arabia but was a substitute in the Belgium game, probably will start up front with Bergkamp and Peter van Vossen, who has not played the previous two games. That means Ronald de Boer will sit. Another probable new starter is midfielder Rob Witschge, who played well defensively in the second half against Belgium. Coach Abdellah Ajri has little hope of leading Morocco to the second round, but he hasn’t given up. He is expected to start Zakaria Alaoui El Ashraf in goal, instead of Khalil Azmi. Rachid Azzouzi will move from midfield to defense and Rachid Negrouz will make his first start on defense, replacing Nourredine Naybet, who got his second yellow card last Saturday.
* OUTLOOK: Holland, which began the tournament as one of the top contenders, is accustomed to desperate situations. The Dutch had to win their last three qualifying games after opening with a loss and a tie, and responded impressively. They will have to play well to defeat Morocco, which has outshot its opponents, 49-23, but has scored only once. Holland will attack as often as the heat permits, feeding the ball to Bergkamp as much as possible. Morocco will try to slow the pace and mount counterattacks.
* OUTCOME: On talent, the Netherlands should win easily, but Advocaat seems unable to inspire his players or win their respect. They openly question his tactics and there seems to be little team unity. Holland’s experience and world-class skills will make the difference and wear Morocco down in the second half. Holland by two.
