Matchday two in Group D of the UEFA Euro Cup 2024 will witness two of the strongest teams in the competition, the Netherlands and France come face to face against each other. The contest has all the makings to provide unparalleled action and excitement. However, judging by the other high-profile games already played in the tournament, both nations do not rule out a conservative style of play.
The Netherlands’ recent form has been a sign of optimism. In their last six matches, they have managed five victories and lost just one game to Germany. The Dutch under Ronald Koeman narrowly won their first match against Poland by a 2-1 margin. The current edition is their 11ᵗʰ appearance in the European championship, with 1988 being the year they first tasted glory at the grandest stage in Europe.
France was put through a real test against Austria in its opening game. Eventually, the quality of the French paved the way for a 1-0 victory. Didier Deschamps, though, was critical of his side’s display and asked for improvement from the players. Few can argue the claim that France is the top contender to lift the Euro crown and a win against the Dutch will just strengthen that assertion.
Netherlands vs France: Probable line-ups
Oranje will be delighted with the return of Ajax striker, Brian Brobbey who is now back in full-time training with the team. Ronald Koeman has no reason not to continue with the same eleven that earned the victory against Poland. Nathan Ake, Virgil van Dijk, Stefan de Vrij, and Denzel Dumfries will once again form the formidable backline for the Netherlands.
Kylian Mbappe’s potential absence is a huge worry for France. The Real Madrid forward broke his nose during the game against Austria. Mbappe will be required to put on a mask for the remainder of the championship. It is still unclear whether Les Bleus would potentially risk the 25-year-old’s involvement in the remainder of the group stages, considering the knockout stages are nearing. On a positive note, Aurelien Tchouameni is set to be called back into the playing eleven.
Netherlands’ probable line-up: Verbruggen; Dumfries, de Vrij, van Dijk, Ake; Schouten, Veerman, Reijnders; Simons, Gakpo; Depay
France’s probable line-up: Maignan; Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, Hernandez; Kante, Tchouameni, Griezmann; Dembele, Thuram, Giroud
Netherlands vs France: Head-to-head record
Last Five Meetings | Result |
The Netherlands lost to France | 1-2 |
France beat the Netherlands | 4-0 |
The Netherlands beat France | 2-0 |
France beat the Netherlands | 2-1 |
France beat the Netherlands | 4-0 |
Netherlands vs France: Live streaming details
The contest between the Netherlands and France will be hosted by Leipzig at the Red Bull Arena Stadium at 3 pm EDT (9 pm CEST). NOS will be telecasting the match live in the Netherlands, while beIN Sports will be doing the same for viewers in France. Meanwhile, in the USA, Fox Sports will be broadcasting the meeting between the two nations.