New Delhi: Tonight we have the second semi final game between England and Netherlands after we witnessed Spain reaching the finals after defeating the French last night in the first semi final game of Euro 2024. England and Netherlands have a rich history when it comes to the number of times they have faced each other in the past as this will be the 23rd time that they will be facing each other. Some of the most legendary names in football have taken part in this fixture, and in the today’s time both the teams have established themselves as two of the best footballing nations.
England have faced a few criticisms for not showing enough urgency and not looking threatening on the pitch. However, it can’t justify the fact that they have made it this far which itself is a big achievement. On the other hand, the Dutch were finally able to get their grounds running and found their form after making it out of their group as one of the best third placed teams. They were able to perform better after the qualification as the Dutch side looked much more comfortable on the pitch.
However, this semi final match is a big one, where the fans will get to witness some big performances from big players. So here’s a look at the key battles on the pitch that could prove to be a pivotal point in the match.
Cody Gakpo vs John Stones
Gakpo vs Stones (Photo by Etsuo Hara/Getty Images) (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images) Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Cody Gakpo is having a wonderful Euro campaign where he is already the joint top scorer and has been a key factor for the Dutch side in going forward. The Liverpool forward has been a menace in the opposition territory as he already has a total of three goals and an assist to his name. He has stepped up for Ronald Koeman’s side as the Dutch manager has fully utilised Gakpo’s ability to run past the defenders, create chances and get into a position to score all by himself.
His link up play has also been top notch with his team mates, Xavi Simmons and Memphis Depay, who are playing around him in the attacking positions. However, it won’t be easy for the 25 year old to get past the experienced Manchester City defender John Stones. Despite being criticised for not scoring enough goals or showing intent going forward, Southgate has been spot on with his defensive tactics. One of the key players who has contributed to this approach is John Stones who hasn’t missed a single minute of this Euro campaign under Southgate.
It is clear that Gareth Southgate trusts the 30 year old centre back who has been pretty decent, contributing to the team’s defensive play. He can be an important candidate to stop in form Gakpo from scoring or causing any sort of problems for the English defence. Another factor that makes this battle a crucial one is the fact that these two have played multiple times against each other in the premier league. It will be interesting to see which one out of the two performs and wins the battle to take his side to the finals.
Xavi Simons vs Declan Rice
Rice vs Simons (Photo by Image Photo Agency/Getty Images) (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
The young Xavi Simons has been a sensational for his club, RB Leipzig, which earned him a call from Koeman for the Dutch Euro 2024 squad. The 21 year old attacking midfielder has already established himself as an important figure for the Dutch side. Simons has already contributed with three assists to his name for his side, as his playmaking ability has been spot on so far. Koeman has utilised the youngster in the best way possible and in return, Simons has been consistent with his performances.
A midfield battle where Simons willl have to face the impressive Declan Rice who has been solid playing in his natural defensive midfield role. The Arsenal midfielder has been a workhorse for Gareth Southgate’s side as he has been one of the best deep lying midfielder in this campaign. His role invoolves stopping any sort of threat from the opposition, before it reaches a dangerous position in his own box. He has perfectly adapted to Southgate’s tactics and has been one of the major reasons behind the England’s success despite the lack of threat that they have produced.
It will be an important midfield battle where Xavi Simons will have to face Declan Rice. Interesting to watch if Simons will shine or Rice will yet again dominate the midfield.
As England are up agaisnt Netherlands in the semi finals of Euro 2024, here’s a look at the key battles on the pitch that could prove to be a pivotal point in the match. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
