Netherlands vs Serbia Prediction
🔊 It's all about the title race now. The group stage of the Women's Volleyball World Championship has concluded, and the playoffs are next on the agenda. Let's take a look at a highly intriguing match between the Netherlands and Serbia. Can the reigning world champions triumph without their star player? We'll find out soon enough. Our editorial team offers their prediction for the game.
Head-to-Head
The teams have faced each other 20 times. Serbia hold a slight edge, but it's unlikely to have much impact.
H2H Stats Matches and Previous Teams Results
Netherlands (W) Team Overview
It's important to note that before the tournament, the team had a disappointing run in the Nations League, failing to reach the playoffs. The Netherlands lost 7 out of 12 matches. However, they found themselves in a favorable group at the World Cup, where no challenges were anticipated. As you might have guessed, there were indeed none.
Yet, there's room for criticism. In their first three matches, the team played two five-setters. While it's understandable against the tournament hosts, doing so against Sweden was less forgivable. The Netherlands' major issue lies in consistency, as the players struggle to deliver quality performances consecutively. The lack of standout stars also plays a role. Bookmakers hold the team in high regard ahead of their match against Serbia, and many already understand why.
Match Results: Netherlands (W)
Serbia (W) Team Overview
It's quite straightforward. Tijana Bošković will not play in the upcoming match. The star leader of Serbia might only return for the quarterfinals, and even that is uncertain. It's crucial to understand how important this player is for the team, as she can single-handedly turn the tide of a set.
No issues arose during the group stage. Ukraine and Cameroon were defeated without dropping a set, but then the team fell to Japan without their leader, which might be concerning. Serbia seemed either shocked or simply unable to adjust in time. As always, the Japanese excelled in defense and played at a blistering pace. Nothing new there.
Match Results: Serbia (W)
Editorial Prediction
It's not that Serbia are being written off, but there's not much faith in them either. Could this skepticism be misplaced? The Netherlands play a completely different style compared to Japan. The Asian team are more tenacious and quick, unlike their European counterparts. Plus, this is the playoffs, so the mindset will be entirely different going into the match. Overall, we can expect a physical game of volleyball, where Serbia have a shot even without their leader. A top team shouldn't exit the tournament this early. Our prediction - Serbia to win.
Betting Tips: Netherlands (W) - Serbia (W)
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