Supporters soak up every moment of high-profile tie

Dubai: The Holland-Argentina clash one of the most eagerly anticipated ones in the first round saw a huge crowd of Dutch fans come out to egg on their team.

Almost 400 Dutch spectators crowded the Spike Bar at the Nad Al Sheba Club one of the most popular hangouts among the community all dressed up in orange and cheering on their team.

Most were confident of the Dutch teams' victory prior to the start of the match. "We are going to win against Argentina. Why will we lose? We have everything going for us," said Dutch Robert Vanderijdt.

Although the sting had been taken out of the match with both teams already having qualified for the second round, the match was one of the most seasoned contests so far.

Many Dutch fans were running high on confidence due to their previous triumph when the two countries had met in the 1998 quarterfinals. Holland beat Argentina 2-1, with Dennis Bergkamp scoring in the 89th minute.

Loud chants

"We've beaten them before. We can do it again," a Dutch fan enthusiastically shouted amid loud chants of "Holland, Holland ...".

Another Dutch supporter, Hans van de Ven, said: "We'll win and be at the top of the group. And I hope we get to face Mexico in our next game. I want Holland to play against a difficult team so that we can show our skill and win."

Added Max Wiegerinck, another Dutch supporter: "I think we can win the World Cup this year. We have always had skill, but this year, I feel we also have team unity."

Unable to drown out the support for the Dutch was a lone Argentine. "I hope Argentina are going to win. I think I'm a bit crazy to be here, but I wanted to show my support for the team," said Mustapha Al Hossiny. "If I get beaten up, please call the police," he joked.