Hiddink hands Holland advantage

Russia boss accepts underdog tag

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 20th June 2008

Guus Hiddink Russia manager

Hiddink: Holland test

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Russia boss Guus Hiddink has played down his side's chances against his countrymen in the Euro 2008 quarter-finals.

The Dutch coach has guided his hard-working Russian outfit into the last eight, but admits that they will be underdogs against Holland in Basel on Saturday.

While Russia have recovered well from a 4-1 battering at the hands of Spain in their opening game of the tournament, Holland have cruised through the so-called 'Group of Death' with maximum points and are among the favourites to take the crown.

Marco van Basten's side have also had an extra day of rest compared to the Russians, having played their final group game on Tuesday - 24 hours before their last-eight opponents secured their progression into the knockout stages.

The Dutch rested the majority of their star names in their final group game against Romania, having already secured progress with wins over Italy and France.

Hiddink believes that, while Russia demand respect, they may struggle to match the fitness levels of a Dutch squad brimming with world class talent.

Fear

"It's hard to say whether we can beat Holland," he said.

"They played against Romania (in their final group game) with their B team and showed good football.

"Holland's football is very good. They have also had an extra day to relax. We haven't and their senior players were rested against Romania.

"What Russia doesn't have is 22 players who can replace each other. It'll be hard but we look forward to playing them.

"The way we play, we get respect, and Holland do the same. I don't know if they have fear but they have the advantage of four days' rest."