Prediction, Odds and Line-Up
The Netherlands and England face off in Dortmund on Wednesday for a coveted spot in the Euro 2024 final. The Dutch have a hurdle to overcome – they’ve only advanced from one of their last five Euro semifinals. Meanwhile, under Gareth Southgate’s leadership, England is seeking its third major tournament final appearance since 2018. Who deserves to be in the final? Let’s preview this intriguing clash.
About the game
Netherlands’ Performance
Despite a shaky start in the group stage, the Netherlands have hit their stride in the knockout rounds. They’ve dispatched both Romania and Turkey convincingly within regulation time. This marks their sixth Euro semi-final appearance, but their journey hasn’t always been smooth. They’ve fallen short in their last four attempts, with their previous victory coming in the triumphant 1988 tournament. This is their first time reaching the semi-finals since 2004, when they were narrowly defeated 2-1 by Portugal. Now, they will look to get the Euros Final once again.
England’s Performance
England required extra time and a Harry Kane header to overcome Slovakia. They later relied on a perfect penalty shootout, and a crucial Jordan Pickford save to defeat Switzerland. Despite criticism of Southgate’s performance in Germany, his tournament record is impressive. After a 22-year semi-final drought from 1996 to 2018, England has reached the semi-finals three times since, including the 2018 World Cup. They are now on the brink of consecutive appearances in a major tournament final.
Head-to-Head History
This marks the fourth major tournament clash between England and the Netherlands. The Oranje triumphed 3-1 at Euro ’88, followed by a goalless draw at the 1990 World Cup, then followed a 4-1 England victory at Euro ’96. England’s win rate against the Netherlands is only 27%, their second-lowest against nations they’ve played 20+ times, behind Brazil (15%).
Key Players to Watch
In the quarter-final, Stefan de Vrij leveled the score at 70 minutes, and Cody Gakpo’s pressure forced an own goal from Mert Muldur. Both could be key against the Three Lions. Virgil van Dijk will anchor the team’s defense, aiming for his second semi-final win with the Dutch.
Ezri Konsa’s stellar showing against Switzerland ensures his spot, even with Marc Guehi back from suspension. His physicality and aerial prowess will be crucial against the Dutch. Similarly, Bellingham and Saka were pivotal in the knockouts. They will be vital to England’s progression.
Possible Team Lineups and Changes
Ronald Koeman faces a serious decision when it comes to his attacking selection. Wout Weghorst was brilliant after coming against Turkey, putting in a game-changing performance. Koeman might start him alongside Memphis Depay, though another bench role is more likely. The Dutch are expected to keep their starting XI, with Bart Verbruggen in goal, Virgil van Dijk as captain in central defense, and Xavi Simons linking midfield and attack.
Luke Shaw’s return to Gareth Southgate’s squad is eagerly anticipated. He missed four matches due to a hamstring injury but is now ready to start. Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa will compete for a defensive spot. Harry Kane, fit after cramp, will seek to extend his record in the knockout phase.
Netherlands vs. England Betting Odds and Predictions
The Three Lions were able to dig deep and got a result in the quarter final but the jury are still out on their performance so far. Will Southgate stick to his starting eleven or twitch his formation yet again will remain to be seen. Netherlands on the otherhand have been in scintillating form at this year’s Euro. They have scored at least two goals in all their matches except against France. It will be save to say they will find the net again against England.
The Best Betting Odds
| Markets | Odds | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Netherlands win |
3.20 
|
3.30 
|
3.25 
|
3.175 
|
3.29 
|
|
| Draw |
2.88
|
2.82
|
2.80
|
2.80
|
2.906
|
|
| England win |
2.72
|
2.72
|
2.75
|
2.625
|
2.723
|
|
| Over 2.5 |
2.65
|
2.57
|
2.63
|
2.62
|
2.719
|
|
| Over 2.5 |
2.65
|
2.57
|
2.63
|
2.62
|
2.719
|
|
| Over 2.5 |
2.65
|
2.57
|
2.63
|
2.62
|
2.719
|
|
Conclusion
While every match starts anew, England’s history against the Netherlands is bleak, with a win-rate of only 27%, lower only against Brazil. This trend might persist in the Euro 2024 semi-finals as Oranje’s potent attack gains momentum. Without improvement, Southgate’s side risks missing the final.
Samuel Okunsolawo is an iGaming expert with over six years of experience in content writing. His passion for simplifying complex concepts makes his articles accessible and useful for beginners and experts alike. With a focus on sports betting trends and reliable betting sites, Samuel’s articles are an excellent resource for those seeking guidance and staying up to date in the world of iGaming.