In a challenging period for the Republic of Ireland, they face another tough test as they welcome the Netherlands to the Aviva Stadium in Dublin for their Euro 2024 qualifying Group B clash on Sunday.
After a 2-0 defeat to France, Stephen Kenny’s side will be determined to bounce back.
Ireland’s loss to Les Bleus highlighted their struggles against resilient defenses, failing to learn from their previous defeat against Didier Deschamps’ men. The visitors, on the other hand, showcased their dominance with a comfortable victory over Greece.
Despite some promising moments from Ireland, including a brilliant save by Mike Maignan and close attempts from Chiedozie Ogbene, they ultimately succumbed to the superior French team.
With three defeats in four European qualifiers, Ireland currently sits fourth in the standings, only three points behind the Dutch in second.
The Netherlands, who have a game in hand due to their recent Nations League campaign, will be looking to capitalize on their advantage.
Although Ireland has a strong home record in European Championship qualifiers, their inconsistent form raises concerns among superstitious fans.
In their previous match against Greece, the Oranje crowd witnessed an impressive display of playmaking skills from Denzel Dumfries. The right-back provided three assists in the first half, contributing to a convincing victory for Ronald Koeman’s team.
However, the Netherlands endured disappointment in the Nations League finals, losing 4-2 to Croatia and subsequently being denied a bronze medal by Italy. Despite their recent struggles, the Dutch are currently second in Group C, trailing behind France.
Looking at their head-to-head record, the Netherlands have only won one of their five meetings with Ireland since 2000.
The Boys in Green managed to secure a hard-fought 1-1 draw in 2016, where Luuk de Jong’s late goal canceled out Shane Long’s opener.
Expected Lineups:
Republic of Ireland:
- Bazunu
- Collins
- Egan
- Duffy
- Browne
- Cullen
- Molumby
- McClean
- Ogbene
- Idah
- Knight
Netherlands:
- Flekken
- Geertruida
- De Vrij
- Van Dijk
- Dumfries
- De Roon
- De Jong
- Blind
- Simons
- Gakpo
- Weghorst
Prediction:
Stephen Kenny has urged his team to deliver an exceptional performance to stand a chance against the Netherlands.
However, inconsistency on home soil could be their downfall. The Netherlands seem to have regained their momentum and are likely to leave Dublin with a 2-0 victory.