Netherlands vs Iceland predictions, betting tips and match previews for their international friendly meeting. Netherlands face Iceland in Rotterdam on Monday night for their final Euro 2024 preparation friendly. Read on for our free predictions and betting tips.
Friendly | Jun 10, 2024 at 7:45pm UK at Stadion Feijenoord
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Netherlands vs Iceland Predictions
Netherlands Primed for Victory in Final Euro 2024 Warm-Up
Key Stats
– Netherlands have kept clean sheets in five of their last six matches.
– Iceland have not conceded in their last three friendly matches.
– Memphis Depay has 45 international goals, making him the top scorer in the Dutch squad.
The Netherlands will finalise their Euro 2024 preparations with a friendly against Iceland in Rotterdam. This match follows the Dutch’s impressive 4-0 victory over Canada, while Iceland comes off the back of a surprising 1-0 win against England at Wembley. This analysis delves into both teams’ current form, expected lineups, tactical dynamics, and predictions for the game.
Current Form and Statistics
Netherlands’ Form
The Dutch side, under Ronald Koeman, has been in formidable form. Winning five of their last six matches, they only faltered against Germany in a narrow defeat. Their recent 4-0 win against Canada highlights their potent attacking prowess and defensive solidity. Historically, the Netherlands have had a strong record against Iceland, winning nine out of twelve encounters, although they lost the last two meetings during the Euro 2016 qualifiers.
Iceland’s Form
Iceland have shown resilience, especially with their recent win over England. Although they failed to qualify for Euro 2024 after losing to Ukraine, they have won four of their last five matches. Their defence has been particularly strong, having not conceded in their last three friendly matches.
Team News and Expected Lineups
Netherlands’ Expected Lineup
- Goalkeeper: Verbruggen
- Defence: Dumfries, Van Dijk, Ake, Van de Ven
- Midfield: Koopmeiners, Wijnaldum, Gravenberch
- Attack: Frimpong, Gakpo, Memphis
Koeman is likely to rotate his squad, bringing in key players like Nathan Ake, Denzel Dumfries, and Virgil van Dijk. Frenkie de Jong’s participation remains doubtful due to an ankle injury, but Teun Koopmeiners is expected to feature in midfield. Memphis Depay, the top scorer in the squad, should lead the attack, potentially alongside Cody Gakpo and Jeremie Frimpong.
Iceland’s Expected Lineup
- Goalkeeper: Valdimarsson
- Defence: Bjarkason, Ingason, Gretarsson, Finnsson
- Midfield: Traustason, Gudmundsson
- Attack: Anderson, Haraldsson, Thorsteinsson; A Gudjohnsen
Iceland’s head coach, Age Hareide, might stick with the same lineup that defeated England, given their recent success. Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson, who scored against England, will likely support Andri Gudjohnsen in attack, with Johann Berg Gudmundsson providing stability in midfield.
Tactical Analysis
Netherlands’ Tactical Approach
The Dutch will likely employ an aggressive attacking style, leveraging their high ball possession rate of 60.9%. Their ability to create big chances (2.9 per game) and maintain a high shot count (18.4 per game) makes them a formidable offensive force. Key to their strategy will be the use of wingers like Frimpong to stretch Iceland’s defence and create space for central attackers like Memphis.
Iceland’s Tactical Approach
Iceland, known for their disciplined defensive organisation, will probably adopt a counter-attacking approach. With a lower ball possession average of 49.8%, they rely on quick transitions and set-pieces. Their defensive resilience, having conceded just 1.6 goals per game, will be crucial against a potent Dutch attack. Iceland’s success will hinge on their ability to frustrate the Dutch and exploit any gaps left during the Dutch’s forward pushes.
Key Duels and Areas of Interest
Midfield Battle
The midfield contest between Teun Koopmeiners and Johann Berg Gudmundsson will be pivotal. Koopmeiners’ playmaking abilities and Gudmundsson’s experience will define the tempo of the game. Control of the midfield will determine the team’s ability to transition from defence to attack effectively.
Defensive Solidity
Virgil van Dijk vs Andri Gudjohnsen could be a decisive duel. Van Dijk’s leadership and defensive acumen will be essential in neutralising Gudjohnsen, who has been in good form. Similarly, Nathan Ake’s ability to intercept and initiate counter-attacks will be tested against Iceland’s forwards.
Gameplay Predictions
Based on their recent performances, the Netherlands are expected to dominate possession and create multiple scoring opportunities. Iceland, however, will likely set up defensively and look to capitalise on counter-attacks and set-pieces. The Dutch’s tendency to miss big chances (1.6 per game) could give Iceland opportunities to keep the game tight.
Improvements and Criticisms
Netherlands
The Dutch side could improve their efficiency in front of goal, given their high number of missed chances. Defensively, they need to be wary of complacency, particularly against a side like Iceland, which thrives on counter-attacks.
Iceland
Iceland’s primary area for improvement lies in their attacking creativity. They often rely heavily on set-pieces, and a more dynamic approach could diversify their threat. Their defensive discipline is commendable, but they must balance it with more proactive offensive play.
Managerial Analysis
Ronald Koeman
Koeman’s return to the Netherlands setup has been marked by a focus on solidifying the defence and rejuvenating the attack. However, his tendency to rotate players could sometimes disrupt team chemistry. Koeman must ensure his tactics remain coherent and adaptable.
Age Hareide
Hareide has done well to instill resilience in the Icelandic squad, but his approach can sometimes be overly conservative. A bit more tactical flexibility could make Iceland more unpredictable and harder to play against. His emphasis on a compact defensive setup needs to be complemented with more aggressive pressing.
Betting Angles and Predictions
Best Bet: Netherlands to Win and Under 2.5 Goals
Considering the Netherlands’ strong defensive record and Iceland’s resilient but less prolific attack, a narrow Dutch victory seems likely. The Dutch have kept five clean sheets in their last six matches, suggesting they can shut out Iceland. However, Iceland’s defence is robust, meaning a low-scoring game is probable.
Correct Score Prediction: Netherlands 2-0 Iceland
Given the Netherlands’ offensive capabilities and Iceland’s defensive strengths, a 2-0 scoreline appears plausible. The Dutch should manage to break through Iceland’s defence but might find it challenging to score more than twice due to Iceland’s disciplined backline.
Goalscorer Prediction: Memphis Depay to Score
Memphis Depay, the Netherlands’ leading scorer, is expected to find the net. His recent form and ability to create and finish chances make him a prime candidate to score. Depay’s role as the focal point of the Dutch attack increases his likelihood of contributing on the scoresheet.
First Team to Score: Netherlands
The Netherlands are likely to start strongly and score first. Their high possession and attacking intent should see them take the lead, especially with Iceland expected to adopt a defensive stance initially.
Innovative Market: Total Team Shots on Target Over 6.5 for Netherlands
The Netherlands’ average of 6.5 shots on target per game makes this a valuable market. Given their aggressive playstyle and Iceland’s defensive approach, the Dutch will likely pepper the goal with multiple shots. This market capitalises on their offensive pressure and Iceland’s tendency to concede shots.
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