Spain vs Netherlands Prediction, 02:45 March 24: The Power of the Champion

Prediction before the match Spain vs Netherlands

In the first leg, Spain started perfectly with an early goal from Nico Williams. However, the Netherlands quickly regained control and took a 2-1 lead thanks to Cody Gakpo and Tijjani Reijnders. The reigning European champions only managed to equalize 2-2 in the 90+3 minute thanks to “super sub” Merino. Before that, they also had to rely on the advantage of having an extra man when Jorrel Hato was sent off in the 81st minute to escape the deadlock.

Facing Ronald Koeman's Netherlands is never easy for any team. Spain, the reigning EURO champions, are no exception, and their run of form is no exception. However, things are expected to return to normal when La Roja return to their home turf.

Compared to previous training sessions, Spain currently has almost the strongest squad. Rodri's position is being replaced quite well by Zubimendi. Their biggest problem is their dependence on the wings Nico Williams and Yamal. In the last match, Yamal did not play well, causing La Roja to be visibly deadlocked. Morata's lack of luck is also something coach Luis de la Fuente must consider. When Spain's wings are ineffective, they need more from the striker.

Returning to their home field to welcome the Netherlands, Spain is rated higher. Coach Luis de la Fuente will likely change some positions to optimize the squad. Among them, Danil Olmo will probably start and is expected to make a big difference like at EURO 2024.

Will Yamal shine when returning home?

On the other hand, the Netherlands are struggling with poor away form. Ronald Koeman's team have failed to win their last three away games (D2 L1). They lost 0-1 to Germany and were held to 1-1 draws by Hungary and Bosnia-Herzegovina.

Compared to Spain, the Netherlands have fewer big stars, especially in attack. This is the reason why they have only won 1 of their last 6 matches. The Orange defence is still solid with Van Dijk, but they lack the sharpness to win.

Head to head history, form Spain vs Netherlands

Spain are unbeaten in 17 consecutive matches since a shocking 0-3 loss to Colombia in March 2024 (W14, D3). Meanwhile, the Netherlands have won just 1 of their last 6 matches (D4, L1). The two teams have met 13 times in the past, with Spain having the upper hand, winning 4 and losing 6 to the Netherlands (D3).

Expected lineup Spain vs Netherlands

Spain: Simon; Porro, Le Normand, Huijsen, Cucurella; Pedri, Zubimendi, Ruiz; Yamal, Morata, N Williams

Netherlands: Verbruggen; Frimpong, Van Hecke, Van Dijk, Geertruida; Reijnders, F de Jong; Simons, Kluivert, Gakpo; Memphis

Score prediction: Spain 2-1 Netherlands

A Phi