Euro 2024: Will the Netherlands make mincemeat of Romania?
by Azadeh Ghavidel | by Azadeh Ghavidel
Following a shaky group stage performance, the Netherlands will continue their round of 16 Euro performance against Romania. Romania recorded a stellar group stage performance that saw them lead Group E ahead of Slovakia and Belgium, while the Netherlands qualified for the knockout stage as one of the top third-placed teams.
Despite the issues faced at the group stage, the Netherlands ranks as the bookmaker’s favorite for this game as they are expected to mince Romania. That will potentially give Ronald Koeman’s squad another chance at Australia during the quarterfinals. Here’s a preview of this round of 16 fixtures as both teams are desperate to progress to the next round.
Will the Netherlands crash Romania?
Romania heads into this fixture with an impressive record after four draws and a win, paired with two losses in their last seven games. Coach Edward Lordanescu’s men started their Euro 2024 campaign with a scintillating 3-0 victory over Ukraine, powered by goals from Razvan Marin, Nicolae Stanciu, and Denis Dragus.
The highs of their game against Ukraine were quickly extinguished by a disappointing 2-0 loss to Belgium, but the Romans managed to keep the defeat margin respectable. They also strived to record a 1-1 draw with Slovakia to finish their group-stage campaign on top of an extremely competitive Group E. The Romanians once again recorded a comeback after an early goal during the 24th minute, but Marin’s penalty in the 37th minute evened the scores.
Meanwhile, the Netherlands have won seven times in their last 10 games, losing two games and drawing one. That makes the Netherlands the bookmakers’ favorite, but we recommend betting on Romania +2 handicap considering that both sides desperately want to progress. Additionally, the Netherlands’ group stage form and performance is a major concern.
The Netherlands started their Euro 2024 campaign with a gritty 2-1 victory over Poland. Despite conceding an early goal in the 16th minute, Memphis Depay gave them the equalizer, and Wout Weghorst's late goal in the second half secured the win for them.
Their second was quite challenging and they played out a thrilling goalless draw against France. However, they faced a disappointing 3-2 loss against Australia, although the Australians proved to be quite good in this game.
Memphis Depay and Cody Gakpo scored for the Netherlands, but these goals were in response to Australia taking the lead. However, the Dutch couldn’t find a response for Australia’s third goal, finally finishing the group third.
Netherlands vs Romania: Key changes expected
With their whole lineup ready for action, the Netherlands will have plenty of options in their arsenal against Romania. There might be several tactical changes as Joey Veerman got substituted after only 35 minutes in their game against Australia. Koeman might give Xavi Simons a starting role.
Romania will need to shuffle their defense, as Nicusor Bancu will be suspended for this game after accumulating two yellow cards. Coach Lordanescu could leverage right-back Vasile Mogos in Bancu's place for this game. Razvan Marin should also be available for the starting lineup against the Netherlands.
