Looking for match predictions for the UEFA Nations League? You’re at the right place! One of the games this week that we just can’t skip is the duel between Netherlands and France. Here’s a game preview, together with some hopefully-useful betting tips.
Netherlands
Even though they lost to France in Paris, the Dutch did manage to sneak in a goal. And that’s something that not many teams can say for themselves in the last couple of years. In fact, they played really well in that game, having the ball in the possession for almost the same amount of time as the French.
Sure, the hosts had much more goal attempts, but that’s not surprising considering that the game was played at their turf. And Stade de France was packed that evening, with more than 70,000 people watching the game from the stands. But, now, the game is played in Holland.
The fact that this game will take place at the Stadion Feijenoord means that the Dutch players will have a lot of support from the stands. A big majority of the spectators on the stands of this 51,000-seater will be cheering for Netherlands. But, will that be enough for them to beat the champions of the world?
Well, the Dutch are certainly hoping so. And there are a couple of reasons to be cheerful. The biggest one is that they’re going into that game after beating Germany 3:0 in the previous round of the Nations League. There’s no doubt they’ll be very motivated to do something similar this Friday as well. However, there are some things that are making them feel down. One of those is the absence of their best defender Virgil Van Dijk.
France
They’re the best team in the world, there’s no discussion about that. Therefore, they’re the favorites against any other team, no matter where the game’s played. Of course, that does not mean that they will win it easily. In fact, they will have to work hard even to get a single point.
And the reason why the French are gonna have a tough time on Friday evening is that they’re gonna be without a few of their key men. The biggest problem is the absence of Paul Pogba, who was one of their best players at the World Cup 2018. And the reason why his absence is such a big deal is that France manager Didier Deschamps did not bring suitable replacements for Pogba with him.
Knowing that France usually play with three central midfielders, it’s strange to see that Deschamps is taking only five midfielders to Holland. And apart from Kante and Matuidi, the other three players (Nzonzi, Sissoko, and NDombele) don’t seem to be at such a high level.
There are also some issues in the back line, where Umtiti will be missed. Still, that’s the part of the pitch where France have several world-class players ready to step in. Deschamps can choose from Kimpembe, Rami, Sakho, and perhaps even Digne, to be paired with Varane at the back.
Possible Lineups
Netherlands
Cillessen – De Ligt, de Vrij, Blind, Ake – Strootman, Wijnaldum, Propper – Babel, Promes, Depay
France
Lloris – Umtiti, Kimpembe, Pavard, Mendy – Kante, Matuidi, NDombele – Griezmann, Mbappe, Giroud
Netherlands vs France Prediction
The Dutch are famous for playing total football. Actually, they’re the ones who invented it. So, you can expect them to attack with all they got in this game. But, will they actually be able to turn those attacks into goal chances and eventually even into goals? Maybe they will, but probably not as many times as France.
Netherlands vs France Betting Tips
- France @
- BTS @
- Over 2.5 Goals @