England vs Netherlands in Euro 2020: Who Will Progress to the Semi-Finals?
The knockout stages of the UEFA Euro 2020 are finally upon us, and one of the most anticipated matches of the quarterfinals is the clash between England and the Netherlands. With both teams having progressed comfortably from their respective groups, this encounter promises to be a thrilling one. The question on everyone's mind is, who will come out on top and advance to the semis?
The Road So Far
England came out of a relatively easy group that included Croatia, Czech Republic, and Scotland. They started their campaign with a 1-0 win against Croatia and followed it up with a disappointing draw against Scotland. However, the Three Lions bounced back with a resounding 1-0 victory over the Czech Republic to top Group D. The English defense has been solid throughout the tournament, conceding only one goal so far.
On the other hand, the Netherlands won all of their matches in Group C, which included Ukraine, Austria, and North Macedonia. They began their campaign with a 3-2 win over Ukraine and proceeded to beat Austria and North Macedonia in their next two games. The Dutch have been impressive going forward, scoring eight goals in the group stage. However, they have also conceded five goals, which is a concern heading into the knockout stage.
The Key Players
England will rely heavily on the talismanic Harry Kane to provide the goals. The Tottenham striker has been in excellent form for his country, scoring three goals in the group stage. He will be ably supported by the likes of Raheem Sterling and Marcus Rashford, who have both been in good form in front of goal.
The Netherlands, on the other hand, have been led by Memphis Depay, who has been in scintillating form throughout the tournament. The Lyon forward has scored two goals and provided two assists so far. He will be supported by the likes of Georginio Wijnaldum and Frenkie de Jong, who have both been outstanding in midfield.
The Tactics
England is likely to set up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Kane leading the line and Sterling and Rashford providing support from the flanks. In midfield, Jordan Henderson is expected to start alongside Declan Rice. The Three Lions will look to absorb pressure from the Netherlands and hit them on the counter-attack with their pace and precision passing.
The Netherlands, on the other hand, is likely to stick with their 3-5-2 formation, which has worked well for them in the tournament so far. Depay and Wout Weghorst will form the front two, while Wijnaldum and de Jong will look to control the midfield. The Dutch will look to dominate possession and create chances with their slick passing and movement.
The Verdict
This fixture promises to be a closely contested one, with both teams having quality players in their ranks. However, England's solid defense and attacking firepower give them a slight edge over the Netherlands. The Three Lions are also playing on home soil, which should give them an extra boost. It's certainly not going to be an easy game, but England should have enough to progress to the semi-finals.
However, football is a funny old game, and anything can happen on the day. The Netherlands has shown that they can score goals and come back from trailing positions. They will be looking to cause an upset and make it to the next round. Whatever the result may be, it promises to be an entertaining match that fans will not want to miss.
