Netherlands vs Hungary: 2024 UEFA Nations League Preview

The Netherlands is preparing to host Hungary on Saturday night for a highly anticipated 2024 UEFA Nations League clash. Both sides want to build on their strong performances and establish a strong position in the group so that their place can be confirmed in the play-offs. With the stage set at the Amsterdam ArenA on Saturday, fans can expect an exciting and pivotal match in this international break window.

Match Details

Match: Netherlands vs Hungary

Stadium: Amsterdam ArenA

Time: Nov 16, 2024 at 7.45 pm UK

Netherlands vs Hungary: Preview

The Netherlands started their campaign strong with a commanding 5-2 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina but have since struggled. Koeman’s side is winless in their last three Nations League matches, with back-to-back draws against Germany and Hungary followed by a narrow 1-0 defeat to Germany, where Jamie Leweling scored the decisive goal. Despite these setbacks, the Netherlands remain second in Group A3 with five points, narrowly ahead of Hungary on goal difference. However, head-to-head results will take precedence if the two sides finish level.

A crucial match awaits, as a win here will take the Netherlands to the play-offs making them tension-free in the last match against Bosnia. Whereas, a loss here will prove contrary as things could then go on the luck basis as how Hungary then performs and can result in relegation from Group B.

Hungary finds itself in a similar do-or-die scenario. Despite a rocky start with a 5-0 loss to Germany, Marco Rossi’s team has shown resilience, holding the Netherlands to a draw and defeating Bosnia 2-0 last month, with Dominik Szoboszlai scoring both goals. Hungary must win to keep their quarter-final dreams alive.

Netherlands vs Hungary: Team News

The Netherlands face a defensive crisis heading into their Nations League finale, with key players Micky van de Ven, Nathan Ake, Lutsharel Geertruida, and Ian Maatsen all unavailable. However, the return of Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber, who missed last month’s fixtures, provides a much-needed boost for Ronald Koeman’s squad.

Midfield concerns arose over the weekend when Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong was substituted at halftime during their La Liga loss to Real Sociedad. Thankfully, it was only a minor shin knock, and De Jong is expected to start on Saturday. He will likely be joined in midfield by Liverpool’s revitalized Ryan Gravenberch, though RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons will miss out after undergoing ankle surgery.

Hungary faces its own challenges, as veteran defender Attila Fiola is suspended due to accumulated bookings. Marton Dardai is set to step into the backline. In attack, Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai will celebrate his 50th international appearance, anchoring the creative midfield alongside Roland Sallai. Up front, Ferencvaros striker Barnabas Varga is likely to lead the charge.

Predicted Lineups

Netherlands: Verbruggen; Dumfries, De Vrij, Van Dijk, Hato; De Jong, Gravenberch; Malen, Reijnders, Gakpo; Weghorst.

Hungary: Dibusz; Dardai, Orban, Botka; Bolla, Nikitscher, Schafer, Kerkez; Sallai, Szoboszlai; Varga.

Netherlands vs Hungary: Prediction

The Netherlands has a genuine advantage to secure the points and go ahead in the tournament. With the quality of players, the Dutch Army might feel confident about holding this fixture on their side as every point matters in such leagues. Hungary will need to impress on the defensive terms and hit the Netherlands on the counter-attacks as much as possible as they are least favorites to dictate the ball in possession terms.

Conclusion

The match promises to be entertaining as both nations battle it out for a spot in the playoffs of the UEFA Nations League 2024 campaign. Some players, like Van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, and many more elites, can prove themselves as decisive athletes if they win the match and place their team in the second spot in the group.