Rapids’ predictions regarding today’s World Cup final between Spain and Holland:
Coach Gary Smith: Holland
“I think the slight change in shape (formation) that the manager has instilled there with two holding midfield players has given them a lot more stability and has not really affected any of the creativity of the group. I think it’s enabled (attacking midfielder Wesley) Sneijder to express himself more, and he’s been one of the (top) players of the tournament.”
Wells Thompson: Spain
“I think they play the best soccer, and I think they’re the best team. But I hope the Netherlands wins. I really like (striker Dirk) Kuyt, and I like their work ethic. But it’s cool that it will be a first-time winner either way. I’m kind of happy about that — share the love.”
Pablo Mastroeni: Spain
“I think they play the best soccer, and they control the rhythm of the game. Any time you can control the rhythm of the game for that large a percentage of the time, chances are in your favor. They dictate how fast they want to go, they dictate how slow they want the pace to go. It’s like a conductor of an orchestra. They’re in control of the tempo, so the other team has to go with it.”
Jeff Larentowicz: Spain
“I want Holland to win. I think Spain will win because I don’t think Holland’s counterattack is as good as Germany’s, and Germany couldn’t score (on Spain). I think Spain is just too strong.”
