Match Prediction: Netherlands vs Austria UEFA European Championship 2024
Group D is a fantastic group. The competition is so tough that every game takes on added significance, with qualification guaranteed for nobody. With France in their group, the other teams might feel that only one place is up for grabs. Having said that, this is one of the most competitive groups in the tournament, so we will hold off on predicting qualification for any team.
How did they qualify?
Austria's route to qualification was straightforward. In a group of only five teams, they finished nine points ahead of third-placed Sweden, so qualifying was a doddle. This was unexpected as very few would have foreseen them qualifying with such ease.
The Netherlands have experienced difficulty in qualifying for major tournaments and would have been concerned early on in their qualification. Greece looked to be favoured to finish in second place but a late Van Dijk goal against them meant that the Dutch could use this momentum, eventually finishing second to a very strong French side.
Team Analysis
The Dutch have a historic reputation for producing very talented ball-playing footballers and this squad is a testament to this. It has become a bit of a joke in the football world that the Dutch are like a Ferrari at the back and shall we say, some less expensive car upfront. Manager Ronald Koeman might be in great pain leaving some of their sheer talents on the bench, so it will be interesting to see if he plays the likes of Van De Ven, Ake and De Ligt in the same side.
With the news of Alaba's ACL injury, the Austrians would love to borrow some of the Dutch's surplus centre-backs. They do possess a lot more talent than some might realise however. Our main concern is that their star players are on the older side, and this might be exploited by a very young and hungry Dutch team.
Players to watch
This Dutch side has so many centre backs to choose from. We have decided to highlight one man who has made a very telling impression in his first season in the Premier League this year.
- Micky Van De Ven: Going into this Euros, this man has only represented his country twice due to the strength of the players in his position. For Spurs this season, he looks to be a revolution and we don't care how, but manager Ronald Koeman needs to find space for him.
Many games in the Euros will be determined by a piece of magic. We have highlighted one footballer who is capable of winning any match.
- Marko Arnautovic: This man might have had an unusual career, including a short stint in China, but his quality can't be questioned. Often putting in his best performances for his country, this man is capable of scoring wonder goals, which will make you wonder why he hasn't had more of a stellar career.
Prediction
The Dutch have the better players and a defence to reckon with. Austria also has some big-time players and will feel they can beat the Dutch on their day. We wouldn't be surprised if Austria were to spring a surprise result on us here, but our heads tell us this is the Netherlands game to win, so that's who we are backing.