"Netherlands vs France: Expected Starting XI, Injury Updates, Historical Rivalry, and Where to Watch"
The Oranje are set to clash with Les Bleus in a heavyweight European showdown as France embarks on a journey to the Netherlands in the Euro Qualifiers. France currently leads the group with a flawless 15 points from 15 possible, while the Netherlands is trailing by six points with a match in hand. The Dutch team enters this match on a high note after back-to-back wins over Greece and the Republic of Ireland, netting five goals while conceding just one in the process.
However, Ronald Koeman's squad will have to make do with a depleted roster due to injuries to key players. This challenge leaves the Netherlands with some notable absences. On the other hand, France has established itself as one of the top teams in these qualifiers, amassing 11 goals in the campaign thus far.
**Kick-Off:**
Saturday, October 14, 2023, at 7:45 PM BST (12:15 AM IST)
**Location:**
Johan Cruyff Arena
**Form:**
Netherlands (in Euro Qualifier): L-W-W-W
France (in Euro Qualifiers): W-W-W-W
**Players to Watch in Netherlands vs. France:**
*Wout Weghorst (Netherlands):* Despite slightly reduced numbers this season, Weghorst remains a pivotal figure for the Netherlands. He's the top scorer in the Euro Qualifiers, having scored 2 goals in 4 matches. His physical presence and aerial threat pose a challenge for the French defenders.
*Kylian Mbappe (France):* Mbappe is having an outstanding season for both club and country, with 7 goals in 7 Ligue 1 matches and being France's leading goalscorer in the competition. With 4 goals and 2 assists in 5 matches, Mbappe's pace and dribbling ability make him a menace for defenders, and he ranks third in France's all-time goalscoring list among active players.
**Match Facts:**
1. France has won 6 of their last 7 matches against the Netherlands in all competitions.
2. None of the last seven matches between the Netherlands and France ended in a draw.
3. France has yet to concede a goal in the qualifiers.
**Injury & Team News:**
Both the Netherlands and France are grappling with injury concerns. Netherlands' Koeman faces an injury crisis with several players out, including Gakpo, Timber, de Ligt, de Jong, and others. Denzel Dumfries, who was suspended in March's loss to France, is available to play down the right flank.
Similarly, France's Deschamps contends with a depleted defensive lineup, as Fofana, Kimpembe, Saliba, and Upamecano withdrew shortly after their call-up for this match. Jules Kounde will also miss the match due to injury.
**Head to Head:**
Total matches – 29
Netherlands wins – 11
France wins – 15
Draws – 3
**Predicted Lineup for Netherlands vs. France:**
*Netherlands Predicted Lineup:* Verbruggen; De Vrij, Van Dijk, Ake; Dumfries, De Roon, Veerman, Blind; Simons, Weghorst, Malen
*France Predicted Lineup:* Maignan; Pavard, Konate, L. Hernandez, T. Hernandez; Tchouameni, Rabiot; Dembele, Griezmann, Mbappe; Giroud
France has yet to concede a goal in the group stage, and they are expected to maintain a clean sheet against a Netherlands team missing key players. France is also motivated to secure qualification for the Euros in Germany with two games to spare, making them the favorites in this matchup. While a closer contest is anticipated this time, the visitors appear better poised to secure victory.
**Prediction:** Netherlands 1-2 France
**Telecast:**
- India: SonyLiv, Sony Sports Network
- UK: Viaplay Sports
- US: Fox Sports
- Nigeria: Supersport"
