Netherlands vs England: Preview, predictions and schedule

England take on the Netherlands for the first time in a major tournament in 28 years as they look to qualify for the Euro 2024 final on Wednesday night.

The Three Lions produced their best performance of all time when they met a star-studded Dutch side at Euro 96, winning 4-1 en route to a semi-final on home soil.

The pair have since avoided each other in the big leagues, but their success in the summer tournaments this summer has seen them clash in the last four.

Ronald Koeman’s team, the Netherlands, came on strong after a disappointing group stage. They eliminated Romania in the round of 16 before coming from behind to knock out Turkey in the quarters. They are now aiming to reach the finals of this tournament for only the second time, having lifted the trophy in 1988 – which was also held in Germany.

England continue to struggle in this competition, but their ability to produce when they have to make it to the third semi-final with Gareth Southgate leading the way. Bukayo Saka’s long range effort saved the Three Lions against Switzerland and they went on to do well on penalties.

They are far from swashbuckling, but Southgate’s side boast the necessary experience and continue to find ways to win.

Here it is 90 min a preview of the Euro 2024 semi-final against the Netherlands.

Netherlands vs England H2H Record (Last Five Matches)

Current form (all competitions)

Koeman has found his way into the knockout stages and is likely to defy the home crowd to start Wout Weghorst on Wednesday. Memphis Depay should continue as the leading man for the Netherlands.

Tijjani Reijnders has impressed since coming into deep midfield alongside Jerdy Schouten, with Xavi Simons holding pockets between the lines.

There will be no changes to Koeman’s backline, although Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven has shown his skills on the bench.

Netherlands predicted to face Turkey (4-2-3-1): Verbruggen; Dumfries, De Vrij, Van Dijk, Ake; Schouten, Reijnders; Malen, Simons, Gakpo; Depay.

Luke Shaw is back on the bench against Switzerland and the Man Utd defender looked happy during the game.

Southgate now has a big call to make down the left, while Shaw is likely to keep the distance on Wednesday. However, he could get his first start for Euro 2024.

Marc Guehi returns from suspension and will replace Ezri Konsa, who impressed on Saturday, and the England manager is likely to retain the 3-4-2-1 formation used against the Swiss. Harry Kane will not be ruled out.

England predicted to face Netherlands (3-4-2-1): Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Shaw; Foden, Bellingham; Four times.

Switzerland gave England a tough test last week, but the Dutch represent another step up in quality given their two knockout stage appearances.

Koeman’s side are not as gifted as the outfit that won the tournament at Euro 88 but the manager has found the formula and showed adaptability in their latest victory. They will target England everywhere and have talent in midfield to steal control from the Three Lions.

Southgate’s side, however, are willing to suffer and will hold their own against anyone given the form of their stage win. Real belief is starting to show in the team, but they may have to go a long way again.

When it comes to the shootout, Jordan Pickford and Southgate’s cold-blooded killers can have the edge from 12 yards.

Prediction: Netherlands 1-1 England (England to win on penalties)

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