The Netherlands will face Spain on March 20 in the first leg of the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals at Stadion Feijenoord in Rotterdam. This highly anticipated match will bring together two European football powerhouses, each with its own unique strengths and strategies. Here is our predicted Netherlands lineup.
Netherlands Predicted Lineup Vs Spain In Nations League Quarter-Final Clash
How Netherlands Have Lined Up Recently
In their last match, a 1-1 draw with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Netherlands went with Mark Flekken in goal; Jeremie Frimpong, Matthijs de Ligt, Stefan de Vrij, and Jorrel Hato were in defence; Teun Koopmeiners, Mats Wieffer, Justin Kluivert, Joshua Zirkzee, and Noa Lang were in midfield and they finished with Brian Brobbey up front.
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Netherlands’ Recent Form And Tactics
Under the guidance of coach Ronald Koeman, the Netherlands has predominately used a 1-4-5-1 formation. They typically set up in a mid-block, focusing on shutting down central areas and directing the opposition towards the flanks. Koeman instructs his midfielders to track their counterparts closely while the wingers follow the opposing full-backs.
This approach creates a fluid defensive structure, with the midfield five constantly adjusting to the opposition, often forming asymmetrical shapes and formations. The Dutch team has showcased a mixed bag of results in their recent fixtures: a commanding 4-0 victory over Hungary on November 16, 2024, which highlighted their attacking prowess, and a 1-1 draw away to Bosnia and Herzegovina, which underscored some defensive vulnerabilities.
Netherlands Injuries To Consider
Denzel Dumfries and Jerdy Scouten have withdrawn from the squad due to injury. Nathan Ake, Stefan de Vrij and Devyne Rensch remain on the sideline. Frenkie de Jong is also doubtful about being fit for the game.
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Netherlands Predicted Lineup Vs Spain
GK: Bart Verbruggen
Defenders: Jeremie Frimpong, Matthijs de Ligt, Virgil van Dijk, & Jorrel Hato
Midfield: Ryan Gravenberch, Mats Wieffer, Xavi Simons, & Tijjani Reijnders
Forwards: Coady Gakpo & Brian Brobbey
