Match Prediction: Poland vs Netherlands UEFA Euro Championship 2024
Group D kicks off with an intriguing match between Poland and the Netherlands. The game will take place at the Volksparkstadion, widely known as the home of Hamburger SV. While the Netherlands might not be considered one of the favourites for the European Championships 2024, Ronald Koeman’s gifted team should feel capable of going all the way at this year's tournament.
Poland have been extremely underwhelming in recent times. Fans will be hoping that the manager will rip up the formbook and get the team gelling better, meaning that this Dutch side will meet their firm resistance.
How did they qualify?
Poland finished in third position in their group and, as a result, had to endure the stress of the playoffs. They were also unimpressive there and had to rely on beating Wales on penalties. They will be very aware that if they are to pick up any points against teams as strong as the Dutch, they will need to play much better.
The Netherlands qualified in second place, five points ahead of Greece. This might give off the illusion that qualifying was a breeze, but if it wasn't for a last-minute goal against the Greeks late on in the group matches, the story could have been radically different.
Team Analysis
This Dutch side has so many wonderfully talented ball players in defence that manager Ronald Koeman might wonder how he can utilise them in other parts of the field. Micky Van De Ven, for example, looks to be a Rolls-Royce defender, but due to the strength of this defence, he has only represented his country on two occasions. They are a bit light up front, which will be their biggest concern.
Overall, the Netherlands’ performances have been a hit-and-miss in recent years. While they have defeated teams they were predicted to beat, they have struggled against top countries. In the past 18 months, they have faced defeats against Argentina, France (on three occasions), Italy, Croatia, and Germany, highlighting their challenges against the world’s elite teams.
Poland's recent form, on the other hand, has been subpar, and during the qualifying stages, they were extremely underwhelming. They will need to play significantly better if they are to fare well in this match and the tournament in general.
Players to watch
This Polish side has had one superstar footballer for over a decade. His output might be on the decline, but we think he still has one stellar tournament left in him.
- Robert Lewandoski: Poland has relied on one man for more than a decade now. They have strength throughout the pitch but will rely on the Barcelona's forward impact.
The Dutch have a fantastic number of defenders to choose from. With so much focus on one area of the pitch, we have decided to focus on one player responsible for putting the ball in the back of the net.
- Cody Gapko: The Dutch have many talented centre-backs who will likely play a big role for them during the tournament. However, you can't win games without scoring goals, and Liverpool's Cody Gapko might be their best bet for a goal.
Prediction
Poland is traditionally not an easy team to play against, and with the strength of the Dutch defence, this match could go either way. Considering the form Poland showed in qualifying and then in the playoffs, we have to back a win for the Netherlands. We are worried about their attacking output but are excited to see their many skilful defenders on display.