Will the Dutch fall for the same disease that has afflicted all the big teams in the last few days? I don't think so. One can explain away Spain's loss, France's loss, Brazil temperance, England's subduedness, but it would be the ultimate mystery if Holland don't make mincemeat of a very poor Japan side.
My only minor concern is that Holland are coming down to sea level from altitude, which I think did for England.
But it is only a minor concern against a poor Japan side.
Tip: 3pts The Netherlands (-1.25 on Asian Handicap) at 1160/1000 (2.16 at Ladbrokes)
* If Holland win by 2+ winning bet; if Holland win by 1 goal, winning bet on half stake, other half loses; any other result is a losing bet
Ghana were a little fortunate to come up against a very out-of-sorts Serbia side in the first round of matches, and will be hoping for a similar amount of fortune in facing Australia.
The Australians can only get better. The performance against Germany - one of the few sides to have spent an entire season using the new ball - was shocking, although they looked like getting back into the game before Tim Cahill was sent off.
Ghana are the youngest squad in the tournament, which is likely to prove a factor and some point. It is also worth noting that in meetings between these two sides (seven), Australia have the lions share of wins (W4 D1 L2).
Tip: 1pt draw at 3/1 (4.0 generally); 3pts Australia (+0.0* on asian handicap) at 6/4 (2.5 at Paddy Power)
* 100 per cent winner if Australia win, 100 per cent loser if Ghana lose, stake refunded if match is a draw
Not impressed with Cameroon at all in their first game against Japan. Samuel Eto'o looked lost and pissed off out on the wing, and they lacked cohesion and confidence against a very mediocre side.
Denmark are a good, solid side, who looked dangerous going forward against one of the favourites last time out, Holland, and the bookies have been incredibly generous.
Tip: 2pts Denmark to win at 13/8 (2.63 at Victor Chandler)