The stage is set for a electrifying encounter between Netherlands and France at the Leipzig Stadium in their second match of UEFA Euro 2024.
France boasts an impressive record against Netherlands, winning seven of their last eight meetings, including both qualifiers. However, Netherlands is on a hot streak, winning five of their last six games, while France has won three, drawn twice, and lost once.
Netherlands kicked off their Euro 2024 campaign with a 2-1 victory over Poland, while France edged out Austria 1-0, but at a cost - their star striker Kylian Mbappe suffered a broken nose and will miss this match.
Despite this setback, France's record goal scorer, Olivier Giroud, is expected to return to the starting lineup, bringing a wealth of experience and goal-scoring prowess to the table.
Netherlands' confidence is soaring after their win over Poland, which coach Ronald Koeman attributed to their solid performance and a dash of luck.
We played very well, but were not able to find the net as easily as we would have liked
,Koeman said.
We got lucky and scored a second, which boosted our confidence.
With their attack firing on all cylinders, Netherlands will be looking to exploit France's defense and secure a crucial win.
France, on the other hand, will be relying on their experienced midfield and attack to outmaneuver Netherlands. Coach Didier Deschamps emphasized the importance of athletic intensity and teamwork at the highest level.
We've got the quality and talent, but there are a lot of teams that have that,
Deschamps said.
At the highest level, there's a need to be solid and work hard together. We did that against Austria, and everyone is progressing.
The possible line-ups suggest a thrilling encounter, with Netherlands' attacking trio of Depay, Gakpo, and Simons looking formidable, while France's experienced midfield and attack, led by Giroud, Dembele, and Thuram, will aim to exploit Netherlands' defense. The battle between Netherlands' defense and France's attack promises to be a highlight of the match.
Possible line-ups
Netherlands: Verbruggen, Dumfries, De Vrij, Van Dijk, Ake, Reijnders, Schouten, Veerman, Simons, Depay, Gakpo
France: Maignan, Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Hernández, Griezmann, Kante, Rabiot, Dembele, Giroud, Thuram
With both teams seeking to secure a spot in the last 16, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. France and Netherlands currently have the same points and goal difference.