In a highly anticipated Euro 2024 group stage match, the Netherlands and France played to a goalless draw on Friday, marking the tournament’s first draw. Despite the excitement surrounding the matchup, the game failed to meet expectations, with both teams needing help finding the back of the net. The Netherlands, led by Ronald Koeman, adopted a counter-attacking approach. France, missing their star forward Kylian Mbappé due to a broken nose, dominated possession but created few clear-cut chances.
Netherlands’ Resilient Performance
Goalkeepers and Defense
Bart Verbruggen (7/10): The Dutch goalkeeper was alert throughout, making key saves, including a crucial stop from Antoine Griezmann’s shot. His solid performance helped maintain the clean sheet.
Denzel Dumfries (5/10): Dumfries had a mixed night, contributing little to defense and attack. This lackluster display might affect rumors of a potential move to the Premier League.
Stefan de Vrij (6/10): Engaged in a tough battle with Marcus Thuram, de Vrij held his ground but relied on Virgil van Dijk for critical clearances.
Virgil van Dijk (7/10): Van Dijk had a strong presence at the back, although he faced some challenges from Thuram’s skillful play. His leadership was crucial, especially when Olivier Giroud was introduced.
Nathan Ake (7/10): Ake showed his strength moving forward and matched Jules Kounde’s physicality, though he had to be cautious against the speedy Ousmane Dembele.
Midfield
Jerdy Schouten (5/10): Schouten struggled to make an impact defensively, raising questions about his place in the starting lineup for the next match.
Tijjani Reijnders (7/10): Reijnders provided essential cover in the first half and relieved pressure with deep dribbling runs.
Xavi Simons (7/10): Simons started shakily, making a few mistakes, but he improved as the game progressed. His disallowed goal due to a VAR review was a significant moment in the match.
Attack
Jeremie Frimpong (6/10): Frimpong’s pace threatened France’s defense, but he needed more opportunities to make a substantial impact.
Memphis Depay (5/10): Depay had a disappointing performance, struggling with ball control and distribution. His form remains a concern for the Dutch team.
Cody Gakpo (7/10): Gakpo looked dangerous when cutting inside from the left and taking on defenders, but he needed to be more fully utilized and had to contribute defensively as well.
Substitutes and Manager
Georginio Wijnaldum (6/10): Wijnaldum’s brief appearance in midfield was more impactful than Schouten’s, offering more stability and creativity.
Wout Weghorst (6/10): Came on to push for a win and made a crucial defensive contribution in stoppage time.
Joey Veerman (6/10): Added solidity in central midfield during his time on the pitch.
Lutsharel Geertruida (N/A): Introduced late in the game with little time to make an impact.
Ronald Koeman (7/10): Koeman’s decision to replace Veerman with Frimpong made the lineup more attacking, and his tactical approach to defending and counter-attack was practical. He likely felt more satisfied compared to his counterpart, Didier Deschamps.
France’s Tactical Struggles
France, without Kylian Mbappé, struggled to break down the Dutch defense. Antoine Griezmann came closest to scoring but missed several close-range opportunities. The VAR decision to disallow Xavi Simons’ goal for a foul on Mike Maignan was a turning point, preventing the Netherlands from snatching a late win.
Conclusion
The goalless draw leaves both teams nearly assured of advancing to the Round of 16, but the match highlighted significant areas for improvement. For the Netherlands, Memphis Depay’s need to find his form is crucial, while France must find ways to convert their possession into goals. Both teams must refine their strategies as the tournament progresses to succeed in the knockout stages.
What’s Next?
The Netherlands will look to secure their place in the knockout Round with a strong performance against the Netherlands. Meanwhile, Poland faces a daunting task against France, knowing their tournament hopes hang by a thread after this draw. Both teams must regroup and focus on the following challenges to keep their Euro 2024 dreams alive.
