Edgar Chaput
November 24, 2022

Netherlands vs. Ecuador Prediction: 2022 World Cup Betting Odds

Both units deserved victories in their respective opening contests. They know full well that a second consecutive victory will greatly augment their chances of going through to the knockout stages.

The Dutch enter as favourites, specifically -137 on the World Cup odds. The O/U is expected at 2.25 goals scored.

Netherlands vs. Ecuador Betting Analysis

Netherlands -144
Draw +255
Ecuador +406

The Oranje and la Tri are not familiar foes on the football pitch, having crossed paths only twice, both international friendlies. In 2014, the Netherlands claimed a close 1-0, whereas in 2018 the squads shared the spoils with a 1-1 final.

Many ingredients heading into this game favour the European nation. Having missed Russia 2018, there is no question that Louis van Gaal’s unit wants to take care of business efficiently with a place secured in the round of 16. Moreover, whenever the Dutch compete at the World Cup (read: frequently) they never fail at the group stage. Their worst results are when they get knocked out in the round of 16. History, pride, and good coaching are on their side in this case.

Ecuador’s history at this level is a bit spottier. They’ve only been present at three of the previous five editions, and before that never at all. Given the opposition, it felt à propos to see how Ecuador has stacked up against teams ranked in the top 20 since 2019. It doesn’t look great, as la Tri has only earned a 3-5-10 (win-draw-loss) record over that period.

Netherlands

Looking at the opener against Senegal, one would be hard-pressed to argue that the Netherlands played a perfect game. Truth be told, they looked a little bit shaky at the back for spells. That said, their overall indisputable quality won the day in the end. Patience and persistence paid off, and when Cody Gakpo headed home the winner over the Senegalese keeper who came out to challenge in the 83^rd minute, it was difficult to argue that the goal or lead was underserved.

The insurance marker from Davy Klaassen was courtesy of a semi-gift from the goalie, but the run to follow the play and pot in the rebound was an impressive effort. It also took advantage of a defence that was beginning to look a little bit tired. Van Gaal’s 3-4-1-3 formation looks to suit the Dutch fairly well and feels typical of their historical style: defend as best they can but invest emphasis on the attack.

Ecuador

It felt just that Ecuador should play on the opening matchday of the 2022 World Cup. For one, it isn’t a nation that gets highlighted very often, not with so many South American rivals taking the spotlight. Second, they played an easy opponent and therefore looked great on the world stage with everyone watching.

Make no mistake about it. Only one ensemble looked World Cup-worthy on Sunday. From the opening whistle, Gustavo Alfaro’s troupe took it to the Qataris and never let up for the first 45 minutes. Star forward Enner Valencia displayed his worth to the national squad, netting twice and, some would argue, should have done so thrice were it not for a tight offside call. The squad looked fluid, lively and, most importantly, as if they belonged on this most prestigious of stages. The Netherlands, however, could be a different matter.