Quarter Final Performance
The Dutch were full of expectations going into the quarter-final stages. Their opponents, Turkey, were having a fine campaign, but with the greatest respect in the world, there have been much more challenging quarter-final draws. The first half saw the Turks dominate the chances and deservedly were 1-0 up at the halfway stage. With twenty minutes remaining, it looked like it could be dream over, but that wasn't the case as they secured victory with two quick goals showing the attacking threat they have possed all tournament.
England knew their performances had to improve, and a change of formation saw Saka shine brightly on the right-hand side. England wouldn't have reached this stage without his influence, as he was by far their primary threat against the Swiss. He is likely to have a much more challenging time against whoever plays at left-back for the Dutch (most likely Nathan Ake).
Match Analysis
As we have alluded to in previous reviews, predicting how an English side might be set up is a mystery. None of us know what to expect from Gareth Southgate's team, but we have reached the stage where hoping for full-flowing football is a fantasy. Considering their improved performance, they are likely to stick with three at the back. The only question is whether the manager will decide to drop Foden or, more shockingly, Captain Harry Kane. Two players who have contributed to this tournament very little so far.
The Dutch should be confident in how blunt this English attack has been so far. They should play with a bit more caution than they have up to this point, knowing that the counterattack is likely to be on.
Players to watch
In the semi-final stages of a major tournament, it is often said that these games are all about moments. We don't expect either team to dominate this game, which is why we think the match could be decided by a piece of individual brilliance.
- Jude Bellingham: The only reason England have a semi-final to look forward to his moment of individual brilliance against Slovakia in the round of 16. He hasn't been exceptional this tournament, but England fans will not care one bit if he ends up scoring another defining goal.
- Harry Kane: Before we risk offending anyone, let's start by saying that we think Kane is fantastic. The reasons for persevering with Kane are obvious. If England could choose one player to have the golden chance, it would be him. However, up until this point, he has been far from his best. If he could rediscover his form and regain his edge, England's chances of going all the way would improve remarkably.
- Cody Gapko: This match is likely to be all about which team will finish their chances best. Gapko has arguably been the player of the tournament so far. With England's new formation, he might fancy his chances of beating a makeshift fullback in Saka and will be looking to put away and half chances that come his way.
Match Prediction
This is impossible to call. We can't back this English side because they are simply not attacking enough. On the other hand, the Dutch didn't look too great against the Turkish, a side they were expected to have the better of. However, they have shown far more attacking threat this tournament than this English side, which is why we are backing the men in orange to reach the final in Berlin on Sunday.