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World Cup - Holland

I would love to see Ruud to what he does for Man U do for his country - score goals and bring them World Cup glory. He has the heart and marksmanship in front of goal. Or will this be a change for Robben to speed past defenders with his deft control. Let's hope so, he's so much fun to watch when he's on.

The Oranjes rediscover their ambition.

After finishing fourth at France 98, the Netherlands failed to reach Asia’s first finals after being thwarted in qualifying Group 2 by Portugal and the Republic of Ireland. It was a devastating blow for a nation rich in football tradition and sumptuous talent, and a memory the current crop of Oranje stars will be looking to erase at Germany 2006.
The Dutch team's greatest moments were back in the 1970s. Under coach Rinus Michels, they finished runners-up in the 1974 FIFA World Cup™ as a team boasting the great Johan Cruyff and Johan Neeskens lost 2-1 to the hosts Germany. Four years later in Argentina they made it to the final again, losing out 3-1 to the host country in Buenos Aires to become the first back-to-back runners-up.

As reigning European champions, the Netherlands looked set for glory at Italia 90, but despite the presence of international stars such as Ruud Gullit, Ronald Koeman, Frank Rijkaard and Marco van Basten, they came unstuck in the second round against a Germany side who went on to become world champions.

As they prepare for their first FIFA World Cup since reaching the last four at France 98, the Dutch can point to some impressive results in qualifying. Former star striker van Basten has rejuvenated the national squad since replacing the experienced Dick Advocaat following the Netherlands’ semi-final exit at UEFA EURO 2004.

Read more at: FIFA World Cup - Yahoo!