Netherlands vs. Turkey: Euro 2024 Quarterfinal Match Preview
The Netherlands and Turkey are set to face off in a high-stakes UEFA Euro 2024 quarterfinal, with both teams eyeing a place in the semifinals. The Dutch aim to repeat their 1988 Euro success in Germany, while Turkey seeks its first-ever European Championship title.
Match Overview
The Netherlands entered the match as favorites, having overcome a tough group stage and securing a convincing 3-0 win against Romania in the Euro Round of 16. Under Ronald Koeman’s guidance, the team has displayed impressive cohesion and tactical sharpness, making them formidable opponents.
Turkey finished second in their group, trailing Portugal. They booked their quarterfinal spot by edging out Austria 2-1, a team that had previously defeated the Dutch in the group stages. However, Turkey faces a significant challenge with the suspension of key midfielders Orkun Kökçü and Ismail Yüksek due to yellow card accumulation.
Team News
Netherlands Boss Ronald Koeman is expected to stick closely to the lineup that excelled against Romania. Bart Verbruggen will continue in goal, with Virgil van Dijk anchoring the defense.
Steven Bergwijn’s 1st-half substitution due to injury against Romania could see Jeremie Frimpong or Donyell Malen stepping in on the right flank. Cody Gakpo, who has netted three goals in four UEFA Euro 2024 appearances, will spearhead the attack alongside Memphis Depay, who is nearing Robin van Persie’s all-time Dutch scoring record with 46 goals.
Turkey welcomes back captain Hakan Çalhanoğlu but must cope without Kökçü and Yüksek. Merih Demiral’s participation is uncertain due to potential disciplinary action following his controversial celebrations, putting Samet Akaydin on alert. Young talents Kenan Yıldız and Arda Güler, among others, are at risk of suspension if they pick up another booking but will likely be crucial to Turkey’s strategy.
Key Players to Watch
- Netherlands: Cody Gakpo and Memphis Depay will be pivotal in breaking down the Turkish defense, while Virgil van Dijk’s leadership at the back is essential.
- Turkey: Hakan Çalhanoğlu’s return boosts Turkey’s midfield creativity. Merih Demiral, if available, will be critical in defense, and emerging stars Kenan Yıldız and Arda Güler could provide the spark needed to upset the Dutch.
Predicted Starting Lineups for Netherlands vs. Turkey
Netherlands Possible Starting Lineup:
- Goalkeeper: Bart Verbruggen
- Defenders: Denzel Dumfries, Stefan de Vrij, Virgil van Dijk, Nathan Aké
- Midfielders: Marten de Roon, Teun Koopmeiners
- Forwards: Donyell Malen, Xavi Simons, Cody Gakpo
- Striker: Memphis Depay
Turkey Possible Starting Lineup:
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- Goalkeeper: Mert Günok
- Defenders: Mert Müldür, Merih Demiral, Abdülkerim Bardakcı, Ferdi Kadıoğlu
- Midfielders: Kaan Ayhan, Okay Yokuşlu
- Forwards: Kenan Yıldız, Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Barış Yılmaz
- Striker: Arda Güler
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