Netherlands vs Canada predictions, betting tips and match previews for their international friendly meeting. The Netherlands continue Euro 2024 preparations with a friendly against Canada on Thursday evening. Read on for our free predictions and betting tips.
Friendlies | Jun 6, 2024 at 7:45pm UK at Stadion Feijenoord
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Netherlands vs Canada Predictions
Netherlands Look to Dominate Against Resilient Canada in Pre-Euro Friendly
Key Stats
– Netherlands have kept clean sheets in five of their last eight matches.
– Canada have scored two goals per game on average in their recent Gold Cup campaign.
– Cody Gakpo, leading the Dutch attack, is expected to capitalise on Canada’s defensive vulnerabilities.
In a key preparatory match for the upcoming Euro 2024, the Netherlands face Canada in an international friendly. Ronald Koeman’s side seeks to regain momentum after a recent setback against Germany, while Canada look to test themselves against top European competition under new head coach Jesse Marsch. This encounter serves as a critical opportunity for both teams to refine their strategies and build confidence ahead of their respective tournaments.
Team Form and Recent Performances
Netherlands
The Netherlands have been on a rollercoaster of form, having strung together a four-match winning streak where they scored 12 goals without conceding. Victories against Greece, Republic of Ireland, Gibraltar, and Scotland highlighted their attacking prowess and defensive solidity. However, their progress was checked by a 2-1 loss to Germany, underscoring the need for further improvements before facing tough opponents like France, Austria, and Poland in the Euro 2024 group stages.
Canada
Canada’s journey has been less consistent. Although they managed six wins in their last 12 matches, notable victories have been sparse. Their performance at the 2022 World Cup was underwhelming, and they recently exited the Gold Cup in the quarter-finals after a penalty shootout loss to the USA. With Jesse Marsch at the helm, Canada aim to rebuild and demonstrate their potential against European sides, having last faced such opposition during the World Cup against Croatia and Belgium.
Expected Lineups and Tactical Approaches
Netherlands
Expected Lineup: Verbruggen; Ake, De Ligt, Van Dijk; Dumfries, Veerman, Reijnders, Blind; Koopmeiners; Gakpo, Depay
Koeman is expected to make several changes to the starting XI that faced Germany. A back three may be utilised, with Nathan Ake, Daley Blind, and Jeremie Frimpong competing for the left wing-back position. In midfield, Teun Koopmeiners could return, adding creativity and stability. Up front, Cody Gakpo and Memphis Depay are likely to lead the attack, aiming to penetrate Canada’s defensive lines.
Canada
Expected Lineup: Crepeau; Buchanan, Laryea, Miller, Johnston, Davies; Eustaquio, Kone; David; Larin, Ugbo
With Joel Waterman unavailable, Marsch faces a decision at centre-back. Options include Derek Cornelius or the young Luc De Fougerolles. Richie Laryea might be reintroduced to bring experience to the defence. The attack will likely be spearheaded by Ike Ugbo, supported by the dynamic duo of Jonathan David and Cyle Larin. Canada’s tactical setup will probably focus on defensive solidity and quick counter-attacks, leveraging the pace of Alphonso Davies and the finishing skills of David.
Key Areas and Player Duels
The midfield contest will be crucial, with Netherlands’ Joey Veerman and Teun Koopmeiners expected to dominate possession and dictate play. They will face Canada’s Stephen Eustaquio and Ismael Kone, who must disrupt the Dutch rhythm and initiate swift counter-attacks.
Defensively, the battle between Cody Gakpo and Canada’s backline, particularly Kamal Miller, will be significant. Gakpo’s agility and goal-scoring ability pose a constant threat, requiring disciplined marking and timely interventions from Miller and his colleagues.
Gameplay Predictions
The Netherlands are likely to dominate possession, applying continuous pressure on Canada’s defence. Their strategy will involve quick transitions, wide play, and utilising the technical skills of their midfielders to break down the Canadian defence. Canada, on the other hand, will adopt a more conservative approach, focusing on absorbing pressure and launching rapid counter-attacks using the speed of Davies and the goal-scoring instincts of David.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Netherlands
Strengths:
- Strong defensive record, with clean sheets in five of their last eight matches.
- High pressing game that disrupts opponent’s play.
- Depth in attack with versatile players like Gakpo and Depay.
Weaknesses:
- Vulnerability exposed against stronger teams like Germany.
- Dependence on key players for creativity.
- Potential lack of cohesion with frequent changes in the lineup.
Canada
Strengths:
- Speed and counter-attacking prowess, especially through Alphonso Davies.
- Resilience in defence, shown in recent narrow defeats.
- Versatile attacking options with players like Jonathan David and Cyle Larin.
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent performances and results.
- Limited experience against top European sides.
- Defensive lapses under sustained pressure.
Managerial Analysis
Ronald Koeman, tasked with ending the Netherlands’ long wait for a major trophy, has shown tactical flexibility and a willingness to give younger players opportunities. However, his inability to secure victories against top-tier teams remains a concern.
Jesse Marsch, relatively new to the Canadian setup, aims to rebuild his reputation while stabilising the team. His challenge is to instil a winning mentality and tactical discipline, particularly against stronger European nations.
Expected Goals Analysis
The Netherlands have averaged 2.1 goals per game in their European Championship qualifiers, reflecting their offensive strength. With 18.4 total shots per game and 6.5 on target, they create numerous scoring opportunities, suggesting a high-scoring potential against Canada.
Canada, averaging 2 goals per game in the Gold Cup, rely heavily on their attacking duo. Their defensive statistics, with 1.5 goals conceded per game, indicate vulnerabilities that the Dutch can exploit.
Betting Angles and Predictions
Based on the provided data, the following betting angles are recommended:
- Best Bet: Netherlands to Win and Both Teams to Score The Netherlands’ attacking strength combined with Canada’s counter-attacking potential makes this a favourable bet. Despite their defensive improvements, Canada are likely to concede but could also find the net through their dynamic forwards.
- Correct Score Prediction: Netherlands 3-1 Canada Aligning with the best bet, a 3-1 scoreline reflects the Netherlands’ dominance while acknowledging Canada’s ability to score. The Dutch defence, though strong, may concede due to Canada’s pace on the break.
- Goalscorer Prediction: Cody Gakpo to Score Leading the Dutch attack, Cody Gakpo is well-positioned to capitalise on Canada’s defensive weaknesses. His recent form and role in the team make him a prime candidate to score, potentially more than once.
- First Half Result: Netherlands to Lead Given the Netherlands’ tendency to start strong and Canada’s propensity to absorb pressure, the Dutch are expected to take an early lead. Their high pressing and quick transitions could yield an early goal, setting the tone for the rest of the match.
- Innovative Market: Total Team Shots on Target (Netherlands Over 6.5) Considering the Netherlands’ average of 6.5 shots on target per game, predicting them to exceed this number against Canada’s defence seems a strong bet. The Dutch will likely dominate possession and create numerous scoring opportunities.
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