Netherlands vs Spain: Tips, Odds, and Match Preview

A spot in the UEFA Nations League semis will be at stake when Netherlands and Spain lock horns in an eagerly-awaited double-header.

Netherlands were having their ups and downs in group stages and they face yet another uphill task against the World Cup winners. Oranje’s main goal is to keep a clean sheet in the first leg, but given Spain’s attacking potential, that is easier said than done.

La Furia Roja, meanwhile, aim to continue where they left in the group stages. Luis de la Fuente’s men are eyeing their sixth consecutive win in the Nations League, but Thursday’s clash will be anything but a walk in the park for the visitors.

Oranje Scoring Goals for Fun

Despite registering only two wins in the group stages, Netherlands somehow booked their spot in the Nations League quarter-finals. Oranje have been producing excellent displays at home and they are likely to stick to their attacking style of play.

The good news for the hosts is that star striker Memphis Depay is back to the squad. With the Corinthians striker up front, Ronald Koeman’s men are expected to extend their excellent goal-scoring run on home soil. You should bear in mind that Netherlands have netted 11 goals in total in the previous three home games.

Ronald Koeman shuffled his pack for the last Nations League game against Bosnia & Herzegovina (1-1), but the 61-year-old tactician is going to field the best possible side this time out.

Netherlands Injury & Suspension News

Defenders Nathan Ake and Stefan de Vrij are both sidelined with injuries, with Man Utd centre-back Mathijs de Ligt receiving a late call-up. Liverpool ace Cody Gakpo is pushing for a start after coming on as a substitute in a 1-1 draw with Bosnia & Herzegovina.

De la Fuente’s Winning Machine

After winning the 2022 World Cup title in style, Spain want to lift yet another important silverware. La Furia Roja have been impressive in the new Nations League campaign and they must be high on confidence following five consecutive triumphs in the process. The good news for boss Luis de la Fuente is that Galatasaray attacker Alvaro Morata has found his goal-scoring touch of late.

In their last two away games in the Nations League, Spain defeated the likes of Switzerland (4-1) and Denmark (2-1), which is surely giving fans a reason for optimism ahead of the trip to Rotterdam.

Spain Injury & Suspension News

Manchester City ace Rodri has yet to overcome his long-term injury, but pacey wingers Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal both made the cut. In Rodri’s absence, Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino is widely expected to start against Netherlands. Porto rising star Samu has received a call-up as well, but the 20-year-old is unlikely to feature in the first leg.

Netherlands vs Spain Prediction

A lively contest is on the cards in Rotterdam. Netherlands are capable of finding the net at home ground and given Spain’s attacking potential with aforementioned trio Morata – Yamal – Williams up front, there is a big value in betting on both teams to score. Both sides to find the net and Spain to win seems like a nice betting option as well. Jackbit offers the odds of 4.85 for this one.

CryptoGamba tip: Both teams to score – 1.75@ BC.Game