The stage is set for a colossal showdown as the Netherlands and England clash in the second semi-final of the UEFA Euro 2024. Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund will host this epic encounter on July 11 at 12:30 AM IST, where two footballing giants vie for a coveted spot in the final.
The Dutch, despite a third-place group finish, showcased resilience by securing their place as the best third-placed team. Victories over Romania and Türkiye propelled them to this stage, highlighting their ability to overcome challenges. Their journey thus far has been marked by three wins, one draw, and a single defeat.
The Three Lions, on the other hand, topped their group and navigated the knockout stages with determination. Extra-time heroics against Slovakia followed by a penalty shootout triumph over Switzerland underscore their resilience. The English contingent boasts an undefeated Euro 2024 record, with two wins and three draws.
Holland have been a formidable attacking force, with Cody Gakpo leading the line with three goals. Memphis Depay‘s creativity has been instrumental, contributing to their overall nine-goal tally. Their attacking intent is evident in their 74 attempts, with 20 finding the target.
England, while slightly less prolific, have been equally clinical. Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane share the goal-scoring burden, with two goals apiece. Their 57 attempts, including 15 on target, demonstrate their efficiency.
The English side has enjoyed slightly more possession, controlling the ball 58.6% of the time with an impressive 90% passing accuracy. Declan Rice and Marc Guehi have been instrumental in recovering the ball 37 and 35 times respectively, forming the bedrock of a defence that has conceded only three goals. Jordan Pickford’s 12 saves and two clean sheets solidify their defensive strength.
The Netherlands, though marginally behind in possession with 55.2% and 88.6% passing accuracy, possess their own defensive stalwarts. Virgil van Dijk and Stefan de Vrij have been resolute at the back, making 28 recoveries each. Bart Verbruggen, with 16 saves and two clean sheets, mirrors Pickford’s contributions.
Head-to-Head:
History offers little to separate these two footballing behemoths. With 22 encounters, the Netherlands hold a slight advantage with seven wins compared to England’s six. Nine matches have ended in draws.
Their previous Euro clashes saw the Netherlands triumph 3-1 in 1988, while the Three Lions secured a 4-1 victory in 1996. However, recent history favours the Dutch, who have faced just one defeat in their last nine meetings against England.
Where-to-Watch:
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