Thrilling Showdown: Netherlands vs. France in Euro 2024 Qualifiers
Netherlands vs. France: A Battle for Euro Qualification
An Epic European Showdown as Oranje Faces Les Bleus
In the Euro Qualifiers, the French national team is set to clash with the Netherlands on the field. France is currently leading the group with a perfect 15 points from 15 possible, while the Netherlands is trailing by six points with one less match played. The Dutch side is entering this game on a high note, having secured consecutive victories against Greece and the Republic of Ireland, netting five goals and conceding just one in the process.
However, the Netherlands will have to contend with a shorthanded squad due to injuries to some of their key players. This absence could prove to be a significant challenge for them in this match. France, a powerhouse in these qualifiers, has already scored 11 goals in the current campaign.
Match Details:
Date and Time: Saturday, 14th October 2023, 7:45 PM BST (12:15 AM IST)
Venue: Johan Cruyff Arena
Recent Form:
Netherlands (Euro Qualifier): L-W-W-W
France (Euro Qualifiers): W-W-W-W
Key Players to Watch in the Netherlands vs. France Clash:
Wout Weghorst (Netherlands):
Despite a somewhat reduced goal tally this season, Weghorst remains a pivotal figure for the Netherlands. He has been their leading scorer in the Euro Qualifiers, finding the net twice in the four matches played so far. With his imposing physical presence in the penalty area and aerial threat, Weghorst demands close attention from the French defenders.
Kylian Mbappe (France):
Mbappe is enjoying a remarkable season, excelling both for his club and national team. He boasts seven goals in as many Ligue 1 matches and is France’s top goal-getter in the competition, having scored four goals and contributed two assists in his five appearances. Mbappe’s electrifying pace and dribbling prowess make him a constant menace to defenders, and he stands as the third-highest active goal scorer in France’s all-time records.
Key Match Statistics:
- France has emerged victorious in six of their last seven encounters against the Netherlands across all competitions.
- Notably, in their recent seven meetings, neither the Netherlands nor France have settled for a draw.
- France maintains an impressive record of not conceding a single goal in the qualifiers thus far.
Injury & Team Updates:
Netherlands manager Koeman finds himself grappling with an injury crisis for the October fixtures, with key players such as Gakpo, Timber, de Ligt, de Jong, and a couple more nursing injuries. Denzel Dumfries, who missed the March clash against France due to suspension, is now available to bolster the right flank.
On the French side, manager Deschamps is contending with a decimated pool of defensive choices, as Fofana, Kimpembe, Saliba, and Upamecano withdrew from the squad shortly after their call-up for this match. Furthermore, Jules Kounde will also be absent due to an injury.
Head-to-Head Statistics
Total Matches Played: 29
Netherlands Victories: 11
France Victories: 15
Draws: 3
Anticipated Starting XI for Netherlands vs. France:
Netherlands Projected Lineup:
Goalkeeper: Verbruggen
Defenders: De Vrij, Van Dijk, Ake
Midfielders: Dumfries, De Roon, Veerman, Blind
Forwards: Simons, Weghorst, Malen
France Projected Lineup:
Goalkeeper: Maignan
Defenders: Pavard, Konate, L. Hernandez, T. Hernandez
Midfielders: Tchouameni, Rabiot
Forwards: Dembele, Griezmann, Mbappe
Striker: Giroud
Match Prediction for Netherlands vs. France:
With France boasting an impeccable record of not conceding a goal in the group stage, and the Netherlands contending with the absence of key players, it’s likely that France will maintain their defensive strength. The French team’s motivation to secure an early qualification for the Euros in Germany adds to their advantage, making them the stronger side in this matchup. While a closer contest is anticipated, the visitors are favored to secure a narrow victory.
Prediction: Netherlands 1-2 France
Broadcast Information:
India – Catch the action on SonyLiv and the Sony Sports Network.
UK – Viaplay Sports is your go-to for live coverage.
US – Fox Sports is your destination for watching the game.
Nigeria – Tune in to Supersport for the match broadcast.
By: M Z Hossain, Editor Sky Buzz Feed
