If there's one thing Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal isn't, it's predictable. He's made a few surprise inclusions for the Oranje's World Cup round of 16 clash with Mexico, with the biggest shock being ever-present right wing-back Daryl Janmaat being dropped to make way for the internationally inexperienced Paul Verhaegh.
Netherlands make surprise changes for Mexico clash
Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal has made some surprise inclusions for his side’s World Cup knockout clash with Mexico.
Dean Mouhtaropoulos
Elsewhere, Dirk Kuyt and Georginio Wijnaldum both keep their places in the starting lineup, meaning Bruno Martins Indi and Jonathan de Guzmán are both made to settle for places on the bench. Rather less of a surprise is the inclusion of captain Robin van Persie, whose return from suspension means Jeremain Lens starts as a substitute.
Mexico's only change is an enforced one, with Carlos Salcido named in the midfield in the absence of suspended José Juan Vázquez.
Netherlands starting lineup (3-4-1-2): Jasper Cillessen; Daley Blind, Ron Vlaar, Stefan de Vrij; Dirk Kuyt, Nigel de Jong, Georginio Wijnaldum, Paul Verhaegh; Wesley Sneijder; Arjen Robben, Robin van Persie.
Mexico starting lineup (3-5-1-1): Guillermo Ochoa; Héctor Moreno, Rafael Márquez, Francisco 'Maza' Rodríguez; Miguel Layún, Andrés Guardado, Carlos Salcido, Héctor Herrera, Paul Aguilar; Giovani dos Santos; Oribe Peralta.
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