Two European powerhouses are gearing up for a thrilling showdown in Dortmund as Netherlands and England compete for a place in the Euro 2024 final.
Let’s examine the current form of both teams and consider how the match might unfold in Dortmund.
Netherlands’ road to the semi-finals
The Netherlands have reached the semi-finals of the Euros for the first time since 2004. Their path to this stage has been defined by a mix of resilience and attacking prowess. Despite a challenging start in the group stage, Ronald Koeman’s team hit their stride in the knockout rounds. They secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Romania before narrowly overcoming Türkiye 2-1 in a tightly contested quarter-final.
Key to their success has been the balanced approach Koeman has instilled in his squad. The defensive solidity provided by Virgil van Dijk and Stefan de Vrij has been complemented by the attacking threat of Xavi Simons and Cody Gakpo. This blend has made the Dutch a formidable team capable of both shutting down opponents and capitalising with precision.
England’s journey to Dortmund
Under Gareth Southgate, England have navigated a more turbulent path to the semi-finals. Despite a series of inconsistent performances, they have managed to grind out crucial results when it counted most.
The Three Lions needed extra time to defeat Slovakia, with Jude Bellingham scoring a spectacular equaliser in stoppage time. In the quarter-final, they needed a penalty shootout to see off Switzerland, with Bukayo Saka, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jordan Pickford emerging as the heroes.
Southgate has steered his team through some challenging moments as the team have shown resilience and tactical flexibility to reach their third semi-final in the last four major tournaments. Now, the question is whether they can advance further and secure their second consecutive final appearance in the Euros.
How could the match pan out?
The tactical duel between Koeman and Southgate promises to be gripping. The Netherlands are likely to stick with their balanced approach, leaning on defensive solidity and the creative talents of Simons and Gakpo. Memphis Depay’s role up front will be pivotal in stretching England’s defence and creating scoring opportunities.
Meanwhile, England will be bolstered by the return of centre-back Marc Guéhi from suspension. Southgate will rely on the creativity of players like Phil Foden, Bellingham, and Saka, with Harry Kane likely to lead the line again.
The Netherlands’ resilience, evident in their come-from-behind wins against Poland and Turkey, showcases their ability to handle pressure. England’s knack for grinding out results, even during off days, suggests they will pose a tough challenge.
Set-pieces could prove decisive, given the aerial prowess of players such as Van Dijk for the Netherlands and Kane for England.
Despite expectations of a closely fought encounter with both teams anticipated to find the back of the net, England might just clinch another victory with the ability of their star players to influence pivotal moments.
