UEFA Euro 2024: Virgil van Dijk’s Netherlands to thrash struggling England in semi-finals

The UEFA Euro 2024 is in the business end with only 4 teams remaining in the competition. In the second semi-final of the major event, the Netherlands will lock horns against England. The three lions have yet to perform as per the expectations in the tournament. They were considered to be the favourites before coming to the tournament. But they could not perform despite qualifying for the semis. 

On the other hand, the Netherlands came as a dark horse in the event. Nobody expected them to qualify for the semi-final. Ronald Koeman’s side performed brilliantly as they made a comeback against Turkiye after being 1-0 down to win 2-1 in the game. They will play the first Euros semifinal since 2004. The team has been well defensively. But they still carry a threat going forward. They are the third team after Germany and Spain to score the most goals in the tournament. 

Three Lions are the side that has looked vulnerable in the defensive areas. Their attack also has yet to click with some massive names up front. Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham are the two players tied with 2 goals in the tournament. Except for these two footballers others have struggled to find the back of the net. However, Bukayo Saka scored a vital equaliser in the game against Switzerland. 

Netherlands looking heavy against England

Ronald Koeman’s side have the belief in them that they can win on Wednesday after seeing how England have performed in Germany. The low block counter-attack will yet again create trouble for them as the side has looked vulnerable during the fast-paced counter-attacking football. The midfield area has been a concern for the Oranje where injuries have struck them badly. Jerdy Schouten and Tijjani Reijnders have managed well in the absence of Frenkie de Jong. 

The head-to-head between the sides is evenly poised seven wins for the Dutch, six for England and nine draws dating back to 1935, with one group-stage win each at the EUROs. In the 9 previous meetings, the three lions have managed against the Oranje. In their last meeting in 2019 at the UEFA Nations League they defeated them 3-1.