In a high-stakes UEFA Nations League showdown, the Netherlands and Hungary, tied on five points in League A Group 3, face off at Amsterdam’s Johan Cruyff Arena on Saturday.
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With Germany already qualified, the winner of this match will secure the last quarter-final spot, while the loser risks a disappointing demotion.
Following a 1-1 draw in October, the stakes have only intensified, as each team looks to make their mark in the tournament’s upper echelons.
Match Preview
The Netherlands opened their campaign with a stunning 5-2 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina, but that early success has since been tempered by three games without a win. Ronald Koeman’s squad has drawn twice—first with Hungary and then with Germany—before suffering a 1-0 loss to Germany.
Despite these setbacks, the Netherlands still control their destiny, sitting in second place thanks to goal difference over Hungary. A win would secure their advancement to the next round, while a loss could result in a relegation scare, pending the outcome of other matches.
On the other side, Hungary, under manager Marco Rossi, shares the Netherlands’ record of one win, two draws, and a single defeat.
After a tough start with a 5-0 loss to Germany, Hungary rallied, managing a draw with the Dutch and defeating Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-0 last month.
Dominik Szoboszlai, one of Hungary’s star players, netted both goals in that victory, rekindling Hungary’s hopes of a deep Nations League run.
Hungary’s recent matches have shown they can pose a challenge to stronger teams, evidenced by away wins over England and Germany in past Nations League encounters.
A win for Hungary would secure their quarter-final place, marking a major achievement for a side that started out in League C during the inaugural 2018-19 tournament. Meanwhile, the Netherlands aim to avoid a second consecutive group stage exit from a major international competition.
Team News
Netherlands:
Koeman faces a defensive crisis with Micky van de Ven, Nathan Ake, Lutsharel Geertruida, and Ian Maatsen all sidelined due to injury.
However, Jurrien Timber has returned from injury, providing a much-needed boost. Frenkie de Jong is expected to play despite a recent knock, likely partnering with Liverpool’s Ryan Gravenberch in central midfield.
The absence of RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons, who is recovering from ankle surgery, deprives the team of an important creative force.
Hungary:
Hungary’s defense also faces challenges, as experienced defender Attila Fiola is suspended due to accumulated yellow cards, making way for Marton Dardai.
Liverpool’s Szoboszlai, fresh off a successful club campaign, is expected to earn his 50th cap and will be a central figure for Hungary, orchestrating attacks from the midfield alongside Roland Sallai.
Barnabas Varga, the top scorer for Ferencvaros, will likely spearhead the offense, looking to penetrate a vulnerable Dutch defense.
Predicted Lineups:
Netherlands:
- Formation: 4-2-3-1
- Starting XI: Verbruggen; Dumfries, De Vrij, Van Dijk, Hato; De Jong, Gravenberch; Malen, Reijnders, Gakpo; Weghorst
Hungary:
- Formation: 3-4-2-1
- Starting XI: Dibusz; Dardai, Orban, Botka; Bolla, Nikitscher, Schafer, Kerkez; Sallai, Szoboszlai; Varga
Prediction
Given the stakes and both teams’ current form, the match promises to be closely contested. Hungary may adopt a defensive stance, relying on counter-attacks to capitalize on any Dutch defensive lapses, especially with key defenders missing.
However, the Netherlands’ offensive prowess—anchored by players like Gakpo, Weghorst, and Gravenberch—should see them breaking through the Hungarian defense at least once.
In the end, the Dutch are poised to secure a narrow victory on home soil, clinching their place in the quarter-finals and leaving Hungary to battle for survival in the group’s final matchday.
