Preview: Netherlands vs Austria

2024-10-10

In a clash of tactical mastery and thrilling potential, the Netherlands gear up to face Austria at the Johan Cruyff Arena, as both teams seek to build on their dramatic opening victories in UEFA Euro 2020 Group C.

Netherlands

The Netherlands defeated Ukraine in a thrilling match that ended 3-2. The Flying Dutchmen were dominant in the first half, missing several chances. Memphis Depay fired wide after a remarkable solo run, and PSG's Georginio Wijnaldum shot over the crossbar.

Denzel Dumfries missed an opportunity to put the Netherlands ahead with a header lacking proper contact. The Dutch continued to press for the opening goal after the interval, and minutes into the second half, Georginio Wijnaldum broke the deadlock with a fine left-footed shot.

VfL Wolfsburg's Wouter Weghorst doubled the lead, but Ukraine responded with a goal from Andriy Yarmolenko, followed by an equalizer from Roman Yaremchuk. The Flying Dutchmen responded, with Dumfries scoring the late winner after connecting with an inch-perfect cross from Nathan Ake.

This 3-2 victory marked the Netherlands' fourth win in six games across all competitions. Frank de Boer expressed satisfaction with the result despite conceding a two-goal lead. "We can be proud," he said, hoping for further progress.

A flexible 3-5-2 formation, which can switch to a conventional 4-4-2 or defensive 5-3-2, is anticipated for Thursday. The Netherlands currently have 3 points and a goal difference of +1 after one win, no draws, and no losses.

Austria

Austria will be making their second appearance in this tournament after a 3-1 win over North Macedonia. Stefan Lainer (18') put Austria in the lead with an unbelievable goal, appearing almost out of nowhere to hit a half volley to the far corner, leaving the goalkeeper stunned.

However, a mix-up involving Austria's goalkeeper and defender allowed veteran striker Goran Pandev (28') to level the score for North Macedonia with an easy finish. Michael Gregoritsch (78') then restored Austria’s lead, and Marko Arnautovic (89') sealed the win with a final goal.

The 32-year-old Arnautovic found himself in hot water for his celebration after scoring, later taking to Instagram to apologize after being pictured being restrained by teammate David Alaba. Austria's coach, Franco Foda, expressed his satisfaction: "We deservedly won and congratulations to the lads, they wrote history today," he said.

Heading into the next game, Foda hopes the team can replicate their form that earned them their first three points. Austria holds a goal difference of +2 after their first victory and might employ a 3—5—2 formation for their upcoming match.