Rafael van der Vaart is set to deputise in Arjen Robben's absence when Holland kick off their World Cup campaign against Denmark on Monday. Perennial under-achievers Holland have been tipped by many to go all the way in South Africa, and the 1974 and 1978 runners-up are on a remarkably good run of form.

Bert van Marwijk's side are unbeaten in their last 19 games - a run which stretches back to September 2008.

Denmark, meanwhile, have lost warm-up matches to Australia and South Africa and come into the tournament on the back of some poor performances.

They did finish above Portugal in their qualifying group, though, and could prove a stern test to the Dutch in Johannesburg.

Holland's squad is littered with star names but they will probably have to do without winger Robben who is suffering from a hamstring injury.

The Bayern Munich ace suffered the problem while trying a back-heel in a warm-up match and although he has trained, is unlikely to play.

Van der Vaart is set to deputise in his absence, and the Danes will have to be wary of Robin van Persie up front, who has looked sharp since coming back from a long-term injury.

Denmark could be without Van Persie's Arsenal team-mate Nicklas Bendtner, who has a groin problem.

The striker may not be risked against Holland, with manager Morten Olsen perhaps focusing on the games against Japan and Cameroon as the real crucial ties in the group.

Olsen went down with a fever last week but his illness has not spread to any of his players.

The Danish coach also must decide whether to play Palermo defender Simon Kjaer in the heart of defence, as the centre-back has been carrying a knee problem.

Goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen is set to make his first appearance since dislocating an elbow back in April.