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Netherlands Predicted Lineup vs France June 21 Showdown

Netherlands Predicted Lineup vs France: June 21 Showdown

The Netherlands are set to face France at the Red Bull Arena on June 21st, looking to build on their hard-fought 2-1 victory over Poland. As underdogs, the Dutch will need to step up against the 2018 World Cup champions. Despite recent losses to France during Euro 2024 qualification (4-0 and 2-1), Ronald Koeman’s squad hopes to reverse their fortunes in one of the most anticipated group-stage clashes.

Netherlands Predicted Lineup vs France

Recent Lineups and Performance In their last match against Poland, the Netherlands fielded a familiar lineup but struggled to perform despite the win. Goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen stood out with six crucial saves, and is expected to retain his place. Nathan Ake impressed at left-back, assisting the winning goal, while Virgil van Dijk and Stefan de Vrij were solid in central defense. Denzel Dumfries worked tirelessly down the right flank, providing a constant threat.

Midfield Adjustments Joey Veerman and Jerdy Schouten found it difficult to control the midfield against Poland, with Veerman being subbed off to avoid a second yellow card. Schouten’s passing accuracy was high, but his lack of forward progression hurt the Dutch attack. Tijjani Reijnders performed well in an attacking role and could retain his place, especially after Georginio Wijnaldum’s introduction shifted Reijnders into a more controlling role.

Attack Overview Xavi Simons struggled to make an impact and was replaced by Donyell Malen, whose more direct approach helped the Dutch generate pressure. Cody Gakpo, who scored the equalizer, shone on the left wing, while Memphis Depay struggled to find the target and was substituted for Wout Weghorst, who scored the winning goal. Weghorst may start over Depay against France’s physical defense.

Form and Tactical Approach The Netherlands have won seven of their last eight games, but their lack of wins against top-20 FIFA-ranked teams since the 2022 World Cup is a concern. Koeman may opt for a back-five formation to contain France, with Ian Maatsen as a natural left wing-back and a strong central trio of Van Dijk, Ake, and De Vrij. This tactic was tested in a 2-1 loss to Germany, and with better personnel, it could prove more effective against France.

In their previous match, the Dutch played a 4-2-3-1 system, which allowed their attacking players to thrive. However, the team lacks progressive passers in midfield, which could be problematic. Koeman may need to adapt the system to better link the midfield with the attack.

Injury Concerns Striker Brian Brobbey is recovering from a muscle issue, with Joshua Zirkzee called up as his replacement. The Dutch squad emerged from the Poland match without any fresh injuries, but will face a tough challenge against France, who are without Kylian Mbappe due to a broken nose.

Predicted Netherlands Lineup

  • GK: Bart Verbruggen
  • RWB: Denzel Dumfries
  • CB: Stefan de Vrij
  • CB: Virgil van Dijk
  • CB: Nathan Ake
  • LWB: Ian Maatsen
  • DM: Jerdy Schouten
  • DM: Joey Veerman
  • AM: Tijjani Reijnders
  • ST: Cody Gakpo
  • ST: Wout Weghorst

Source: https://lastwordonsports.com/football/2024/06/21/netherlands-predicted-lineup-vs-france/