England in a World Cup semi, Waistcoat Wednesday and pink unicorns in pool’s, 2018 really was a welcome escape from the usual tournament misery.
With Southgate’s army of young pace and gifted footballers excelling on the world stage, it was easy to imagine the side reverting to type once those tired legs touched home. It wasn’t to be…
Whilst England’s Nations League campaign started sluggishly, glorious wins over Spain and Croatia in the final two matches ensured a semi finals place, their opponents, a Dutch side experiencing a similar change in fortunes.
Ronaldo Koeman’s Netherlands have not qualified for the last two major tournaments, a travesty when you consider the countries rich football heritage. Impressive Nations League wins over France and Germany have given the home contingent reasons to be chearful. Not to mention the rising stars of Dutch football.
What the Bookies say
So far all the major outlets are torn on the outcome. Whilst England can be quietly confident of outscoring their opponents, the fact that major clubs sides Liverpool and Spurs have gone all the way in the Champions League will mean Southgate will need to be a harsh judge of fitness ahead of the crunch game. For those savvy enough, a Canadian bet may be worth a punt. Those wondering what that involves will do well to read this what is canadian betting guide.
Holland
Whilst the sides lack of true world class attacking talent falls behind the English, in Matthijs de Ligt and Virgil van Dijk the Oranje have one of the most solid (and expensive) centreback pairings in world football – perhaps even their history.
We musn’t also forget Ajax’s two midfield prodigies Donny van de Beek and Frenkie de Jong (now Barca) shoring up the midfield. A spine not to be scoffed at, no?
The Forward line will most likely include the talented but inconsistent Memphis Depay and Justin Kluivert, the former has notched up 10 goals and 10 assist for Lyon, making him more than reasonable priced option for Europe’s elite. As enfuraiting as he is, Depay can be a true Roll Royce when given the right conditions. Kluivert on the over hand has struggled to find his rythme at new club Roma, managing just 1 goal in 29 appearances. Like Depay however, the son of former great Patrick is the future of the game in Holland.
England
A Champions League final just a week prior has given the England coaching side a mild headache ahead of the encounter. Liverpool’s Trent Alexander Arnold and Jordan Henderson will most likely play bit parts, as well as Spurs stars Dele Alli and Danny Rose. Long term injuries to the two Harry’s, Winks and Kane (although in the squad), will mean further absentees.
Not that England fans should worry of course. Emerging stars Jaydon Sancho and Declan Rice may find game time as well as the rapid Marcus Rashford.
Previous form and Prediction
England’s last 6 fixtures have seen 5 wins and 1 draw with the side score an impressive 18 goals, conceding just 4 goals in the process.
The Netherlands arent too behind in the form stakes. Whilst they racked up 2 less wins, the fact that Germany (Twice), Belgium and France have been their opponents shows an ability to mix it with the best.
A mini tournemant before the players get to go on their holidays, it would be difficult to predict an outcome with so many tired legs in the squads, however, we’re going to back that England’s fire power will have the edge when the two meet in the Estádio D. Afonso Henriques next Thursday evening.
Netherlands 1-3 England