Netherlands Face Uphill Battle in Euro 2020 Qualifiers: Can They Mount a Comeback?
The Oranje, as they are affectionately known, have been a dominant force in European football for decades. With a reputation for producing some of the most skilled and technically gifted players in the world, the Netherlands have a rich history of success in major international tournaments. However, as the Euro 2020 qualifiers get underway, the Dutch face a daunting task to turn their fortunes around after a disappointing start.
Despite boasting a talented squad, featuring the likes of Paris Saint-Germain’s Frenkie de Jong and Liverpool’s Georginio Wijnaldum, the Netherlands have stumbled out of the blocks. A 4-2 loss to former European champions Spain in the opening group stage fixture has left them with a mountain to climb to qualify for the tournament.
The loss to La Roja, combined with a 6-1 thrashing at the hands of Italy, has left the Dutch in a precarious position. They now find themselves sitting in third place in their group, behind Spain and the Azzurri. With only four points from five matches, the stakes are high for the Netherlands as they prepare to face the Italians in their next outing.
Coach Ronald Koeman, a highly experienced gaffer with a background in the Premier League, will be under immense pressure to deliver a reaction from his team. With a host of experienced players in his squad, including Wijnaldum, De Jong, and Ryan Babel, the Dutch will be relying on their star players to produce the goods.
However, the fixture against Italy poses a significant challenge. The Azzurri have been hit-and-miss in the qualifiers, but their 2-1 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina demonstrates their ability to grind out results when needed. A victory would give Italy a commanding position in the group, leaving the Netherlands with little room for error.
To make matters more challenging, the pressure is mounting on the shoulders of De Jong, who has been criticized for his lack of creativity and vision. The 22-year-old prodigy, who moved to PSG for a massive transfer fee, has struggled to replicate his impressive club form on the international stage. Koeman will need De Jong and Wijnaldum to show their class and authority if the Oranje are to get back on track.
While the odds are stacked against the Netherlands, their fans will be hopeful that their team can mount a remarkable comeback. With two matches left in the group stage, the Dutch will need to regroup, refocus, and rediscover their attacking flair. A task easier said than done, but with the right kind of leadership and collective spirit, the Netherlands can still salvage their Euro 2020 dreams.
The stage is set for an intense and tantalizing encounter between the Netherlands and Italy. Can Koeman inspire his troops to overcome the Italians and revive their faltering campaign? One thing is certain – the Oranje will need to be at the top of their game to overcome the formidable challenge that lies ahead. As the battle for Euro 2020 qualification heats up, the Netherlands will stop at nothing to turn their fortunes around and make a statement in the world of European football.