This bit I don't like. The Dutch have earned the right to field whatever team they choose.
They have and they will. No one can force them into anything, even if the first 11 play, it's not like you are going to force them to play well and score, that's ridiculous.
I think Italy should just concentrate on winning their game against France to at least save some face if they aren't going to qualify. They have been better than France, they have been a lot more misfortunate and that's why they are in the same position.
I'm not saying Italy have been playing well but they have been a lot more decent in the second game than the first which probably means they have some kind of momentum while the French have been blatantly terrible.
There is no doubt however that the quality of the French side can overtake any side on its day. However, I have my concerns for their ageing defense. Thuram has been a joke and not calling Mexes to the squad was pure idiocy from Domenech. Their midfield is very overrated by the way.
Ribery is their best player but he still has a long way to go before he can even be considered in the same league as Zizou. Malouda is rubbish. I honestly don't know why people think he's good. Makelele is too old. Toulalon is not too good either.
Henry is probably their only decent player in attack and he hasn't been too great lately. Benzema choked, Anelka should strangle himself.
Coupet has been the worst goalkeeper of the tournament. Some dude in Florence must be laughing his ass off right about now.
When you come to think of it, France really isn't that good and if Italy can find the right formation, they have a very strong chance of beating the French.