It’s a repeat of the 2010 World Cup final in the Nations League on Thursday as the Netherlands face Spain in the first leg of the quarter-finals. The game will take place at De Kuip in Rotterdam, with the second leg slated for Sunday in Valencia.
Netherlands vs Spain Preview
The Dutch have shown flashes of brilliance in an inconsistent campaign that saw them finish second in Group A3. Germany were head and shoulders the best team, with the Netherlands five points further back. A haul of just nine points from 18 must be seen as disappointing.
Their home record is encouraging though. They remained unbeaten at De Kuip with two wins and one draw. Manager Ronald Koeman’s tactical flexibility and willingness to adapt will be key as the Netherlands look to extend an unbeaten home run which dates from November 2023.
They go into this game off the back of a 4-0 home win over Hungary and a 1-1 draw in Bosnia. The latter result demonstrated their ability to grind out results even under pressure.
Spain, on the other hand, have been nothing short of sensational. La Roja secured five wins and one draw from six matches, sitting comfortably atop Group A4 with a +9 goal difference (13 scored, four conceded). Their away form is equally impressive, boasting two wins and one draw, which underscores their ability to perform consistently irrespective of venue.
Under the astute guidance of Luis de la Fuente, Spain have embraced a dynamic, possession-based style that is both fluid and high-pressing. Their recent 3-2 victory over Switzerland at home is a testament to their attacking prowess and fighting spirit.
In their head-to-head encounters over the last five meetings across all competitions, the Netherlands hold a slight edge with three wins, while Spain have registered one win and one match ended in a draw. Spain’s win, of course, was the 2010 World Cup final.
This rich history, combined with the current form of both sides, sets the stage for a truly enthralling contest where both teams are expected to find the net.
Predictions for Netherlands vs Spain
Netherlands Win
Playing on home turf with a long unbeaten record, the Netherlands will be eager to upset the Spanish juggernaut. Koeman’s men will look to capitalise on their home advantage and secure a lead to take into the second leg in Spain.
Draw
Given the competitive nature of both sides and their impressive attacking records, a stalemate is also a distinct possibility. If both teams adopt a disciplined approach, the match could finish as a draw.
Spain Win
Should Spain impose their possession-based game and exploit any defensive lapses from the Netherlands, they are well-placed to secure victory. While both teams scored 13 goals in the Nations League group stage, Spain do boast a better defensive record (four goals conceded to seven).
How Many Goals Can Be Expected?
Both teams are renowned for their attacking intent. The Netherlands scored 11 of their 13 goals at home, including two against Germany. They hammered Bosnia 5-2 and Hungary 4-0.
Spain’s last three matches all had over 2.5 goals. The last two of Spain’s away matches in the Nations League also had more than 2.5 goals (1-4 against Switzerland, 1-2 against Denmark).
Will Both Teams Score?
Both teams have scored in only two of the last five games between the two sides.
However, both teams scored in four of the Netherlands’ six Nations League group stage fixtures. The same is true in three of Spain’s six fixtures. The law of averages suggests this could go either way.
Netherlands vs Spain – Betting Tips
Both Teams to Score
Considering the Netherlands have scored in every home fixture in the Nations League (11 of their 13 goals have come at home) while Spain have scored six on the road, I think BTTS will come in.
Over 2.5 Goals
All three of the Netherlands’ home games in the Nations League had over 2.5 goals, while two of Spain’s three away fixtures did.
Correct Score: 2-2 Draw
For punters seeking a more specific wager, a 2-2 draw offers good value, reflecting the balanced head-to-head record and the likelihood of both teams finding the net.
Netherlands vs Spain – Head-to-Head and Key Stats
- There have been 12 encounters between the Netherlands and Spain. The Dutch have won six and have lost four. There have been two draws.
- In the last five head-to-head meetings between the Netherlands and Spain, the Netherlands have recorded three wins, while Spain have secured one win. One match ended in a draw.
- The Dutch have an unbeaten home record in the Nations League, scoring 11 goals in their three games.
My Verdict
It’s a battle between two of Europe’s powerhouses and there is little to differentiate the two. Spain had a better Nations League group stage campaign, but the Netherlands have home advantage. There are goals in both sides, so looking at these markets may be best.
