England’s matches have been slow-paced, largely dull affairs this summer, but the meeting with the Dutch in Dortmund could produce a higher-octane duel. The semi-final clash between England and the Netherlands at UEFA Euro 2024 is set to provide an intriguing contest that many hope will break the monotony of England’s previous games.
The Dutch camp is notably emphasizing the anticipation for a Premier League-type clash, thanks to the presence of several players from England’s top-flight clubs. Netherlands defender Micky van de Ven, currently playing for Tottenham Hotspur, expressed his expectations for a high-paced encounter. “I think so,” Van de Ven stated when asked if the match would resemble a Premier League fixture. “If you see the quality of players from both teams, you can expect the rhythm and level of the game will be really high.”
The heightened expectations stem not only from the players’ Premier League affiliations but also from the critical juncture both teams face. England has had a rather sedate journey through the competition, culminating in a penalty shoot-out win against Switzerland after a goalless draw in the quarter-final. The Three Lions have faced criticisms for their lacklustre performances, but the semi-final against the Netherlands offers a fresh opportunity to inject some excitement.
Cody Gakpo, part of the Netherlands squad and a current Liverpool star, highlighted the challenge posed by England’s young talent, particularly Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham. Bellingham, aged just 21, scored a sensational overhead kick in the last 16 against Slovakia, an effort that kept England’s Euro 2024 hopes alive. “Obviously, he’s having a very, very good season,” Gakpo said. “He’s a world-class player and he made a fantastic goal. He’s someone we need to watch closely.”
The Dutch also know that England’s squad is not just about Bellingham. “They have more players we need to watch; they have a very good team with very good players.
. But we have a very good team as well,” Gakpo added. The Dutch side includes key players like Virgil van Dijk and Gakpo himself, who are eager to make their mark.
Gakpo, who is tied as the top scorer at the Euros with three goals, was particularly impressed by England’s proficiency in penalties, as demonstrated against Switzerland. “Their penalties were very good, but if you see the players who took them, quality players, some of them take penalties for their clubs,” remarked Gakpo. “The quality is there and we know they are very good when it comes to penalties. Hopefully, if the semi-final comes to penalties, we will win.”
Dutch hopes are high, having reached their first Euros semi-final since 2004 by defeating Turkey 2-1 in a dramatic quarter-final, a notable improvement after reaching the World Cup quarter-finals two years ago in Qatar. “We are a step further than the previous tournament and I am happy that I can be part of this too,” shared Gakpo.
Van de Ven, echoing the confidence within the Dutch camp, added, “Hopefully, it’s us that have more of the ball than England, so it’s more England that’s running, but I expect a high-intensity game.” The sense of mutual respect and competitive edge between the teams hints at a match that could finally bring the excitement fans have been yearning for this summer.
The semi-final in Dortmund not only serves as a significant milestone for both teams but also carries the promise of delivering top-tier football. England’s journey, marked by moments of brilliance amidst dull spells, contrasts with the Netherlands’ steady climb and recent surge of confidence. Both sides are carrying the hopes and expectations of their fans and nations, with the added narrative of a Premier League undercurrent.
As the excitement builds, all eyes will be on the showdown in Dortmund, where the anticipation of a high-octane duel continues to mount. Who will rise to the occasion? Will England break free from their sluggish form, or will the Dutch continue their remarkable run? Questions abound as the world waits for what promises to be a thrilling semi-final encounter at Euro 2024.
