The UEFA Nations League returns with an exciting match-up between the Netherlands and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Both teams are looking to make a strong start in the competition, with the Netherlands hoping to build on their impressive run in the recent European Championship, while Bosnia and Herzegovina aim to halt their losing streak and prove their worth in Group A.
The match is set to take place at the Philips Stadium in Eindhoven, where the Dutch fans will be eager to see their team secure a victory.
Netherlands
Netherlands Recent Form
The Netherlands enter this fixture on the back of a strong showing at Euro 2024, where they reached the semi-finals before being knocked out by England. The Dutch have been solid in recent international outings, with a dynamic attacking style that has seen them score 11 goals during the Euros.
However, they face a new challenge in the Nations League under the revised format, where only the top two teams from each group advance to the quarter-finals. A win in this opener is crucial to maintain their hopes of progressing from Group A, especially with a tough fixture against Germany looming.
Netherlands Injury News
The Netherlands have a few concerns heading into this match. Cody Gakpo, despite limited playtime at Liverpool, is expected to lead the attack. Memphis Depay, who remains without a club after leaving Atletico Madrid, is also likely to start, alongside RB Leipzig's Xavi Simons.
The Dutch team will, however, be without Steven Bergwijn, who has been excluded from the squad following his move to Saudi Arabia.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina Recent Form
Bosnia and Herzegovina are currently in a slump, having lost their last six games across all competitions. After a disappointing Euro 2024 qualification campaign where they won just three of their ten matches, they managed to secure a playoff spot but were ultimately defeated by Ukraine, missing out on the tournament in Germany.
Since then, the team has struggled under new management, with consecutive losses in friendlies against England and Italy highlighting their defensive frailties and lack of firepower upfront.
Bosnia and Herzegovina Injury News
Bosnia and Herzegovina's main threat remains Edin Dzeko, who continues to perform well for Fenerbahce under Jose Mourinho.
Dzeko will be key to any hopes of an upset, but the team lacks depth and has struggled to find consistency.
No major injury concerns have been reported, but the lack of form and confidence in the squad is evident.
Players To Watch
Netherlands Player To Watch
Cody Gakpo will be pivotal for the Dutch attack. Despite his struggles at Liverpool, he remains a vital asset for Ronald Koeman's side.
Gakpo's ability to break down defences and create scoring opportunities will be crucial, especially against a team like Bosnia and Herzegovina that has shown vulnerability at the back.
Bosnia and Herzegovina Player To Watch
Edin Dzeko is Bosnia and Herzegovina's most experienced and reliable goal scorer. The veteran forward, who is enjoying a strong season at Fenerbahce, will need to lead by example if his side is to have any chance of overcoming the Dutch.
Dzeko's leadership and scoring ability make him the key player to watch for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Prediction
The Netherlands are clear favourites for this match, given their superior form and home advantage. With a potent attack featuring Gakpo, Depay, and Simons, they are likely to dominate possession and create multiple scoring chances.
Bosnia and Herzegovina, on the other hand, will struggle to cope with the Dutch offensive threat and may find it hard to breach the home side's defence.
Our Prediction: Netherlands to lead at half-time and win the match
Netherlands 
Bosnia-H. 
