This should be an absolutely cracking game of football! Two European heavyweights renew an age-old rivalry as they both look to secure their position in the next round.
Be sure to strap in for this one!
To Win (90 mins)
Netherlands 23/10
Draw 49/20
France 11/10
Netherlands
The Netherlands is looking to break what is set to become an almost four-decade drought for an international title. Ronald Koeman seems to have garnered a sense of familiarity with both the players and the fans (who by the way, have come out in their absolute numbers) and with the experience and quality he has available to him – they could be a surprise package during this tournament.
I am intrigued to see how the Dutch set up for this game though. They have shown tactical flexibility, but I think their three-man defence system showcases their defensive prowess and brings their dominant and aggressive midfield into the game. Tijjani Reijnders will likely take up his position in the heart of their midfield and Memphis Depay will lead the attack.
The Dutch have lost seven of their last eight meetings with the French, a devastating statistic to be fair! However, the way in which they played their opening game against Poland gives me a lot of confidence. They didn’t take all of their chances, but importantly they showed that they can go into another gear.
France
The French will be hunting a third European title during this campaign, and after a disappointing 2022 edition and FIFA World Cup, Didier Deschamps will surely be eager to see his side return to the apex of international football.
You don’t need me to say that players like Kylian Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann, are expected to compete in the later stages of this competition. When you consider their young crop of players coming through the ranks supporting these stalwarts it just simply spells out trouble for any opponent.
For the French, Tchouameni has played a pivotal role in linking their defensive line to their attacking options. Olivier Giroud once again leads the line, and with Griezmann, Mbappe, and Ousmane Dembele as supporting options out wide you get the feeling that they will be incredibly difficult to stop.
The French come into the game with the better statistics, but this is Euro football and neither side will want to concede anything here. it really is so difficult to separate these two.
Prediction: BTTS: Yes (13/20)
Yes, yes, I know – this isn’t the biggest call you have ever seen…but I believe it’s an absolute banker! For those who need an outright punt, I would back the Dutch! I think they can exploit the French approach of calm and systematic build-up with their aggressive game, furthermore, they too have some serious weaponry upfront!