Spain vs Netherlands: When, How to Watch & Score Prediction
Spain and the Netherlands head into Sunday's UEFA Nations League quarter-final second leg in Valencia with everything to play for after a thrilling 2-2 draw in Rotterdam.
Kick-off is at 7:45 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT) and fans can catch the action live on BeIN Sports Arabic, BeIN Sports English, and L'Équipe.
Mikel Merino's stoppage-time strike kept Spain alive after Jorrel Hato's late red card left the Dutch vulnerable. The Netherlands have never lifted the Nations League trophy, coming closest in 2018/19 when they finished runners-up. Now, Ronald Koeman's side are desperate to get their hands on the trophy.
Spain have injury concerns at the back. Pau Cubarsi limped off before half-time on Thursday, and while coach Luis de la Fuente hasn't ruled him out, it would be a shock to see him in the starting 11. Dean Huijsen stepped in and could now make his full debut. Aside from Cubarsi, Spain have no other fitness worries.
Up front, not much is expected to change. Merino and Dani Olmo remain bench options, while captain Álvaro Morata will once again lead the attacking line.
Koeman faces a defensive headache. Hato's suspension could force a reshuffle at the back, while Jurrien Timber is out with illness. Jeremie Frimpong is likely to drop into the right-back role, with Lutsharel Geertruida shifting to the left. Ian Maatsen has received a late call-up as cover.
Xavi Simons is pushing for a starting spot on the right flank, while Memphis Depay is expected to spearhead the frontline with both Justin Kluivert and Cody Gakpo behind him.
Frimpong was the star of the show in Rotterdam, tearing Spain apart with his blistering pace. He tormented Marc Cucurella before setting up Tijjani Reijnders for the first goal. The Bayer Leverkusen speedster tore through Spain's defence, creating four chances, winning 10 duels, and completing seven dribbles.
But taking down Spain will be no easy task. De la Fuente's men are unbeaten in 17 games and remain favourites to go through and list the Nations League crown.
Predicted Line-ups:
Spain : Simon; Porro, Le Normand, Cubarsi, Cucurella; Zubimendi, Pedri, Fabian Ruiz; Yamal, Morata, Williams
Netherlands : Verbruggen; Van Dijk, De Ligt, van Hecke; Frimpong, Reijnders, De Jong; Geertruida; Gakpo, Kluivert, Memphis
Predicted Score:
Spain's unbeaten run and squad depth give them the edge. They'll dominate possession, while the Dutch rely on counters. Frimpong and Gakpo could cause trouble, but Spain's firepower — Yamal, Williams, and Morata — should seal the win.
Spain 2-0 Netherlands. Tags: netherlandsSpainUEFA Nations League
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Ya Biladi
2 hours ago
- Ya Biladi
Morocco draws Brazil, Mexico, and Spain in thrilling U-20 World Cup Group
The draw for the FIFA Under-20 World Cup, held on the evening of Thursday, May 29, 2025, in Santiago, Chile, has placed the Moroccan national team in Group C, alongside Brazil, Mexico, and Spain. This edition promises thrilling and high-level matchups. The Atlas Lions' youth team earned their spot in this global tournament, set to take place from September 27 to October 19, 2025, after finishing as runners-up at the Africa U-20 Cup of Nations, following an impressive performance in the tournament hosted recently by Egypt. Facing three of the world's strongest teams in this age category, Morocco's task will be a formidable one. Their participation will serve as a crucial test and an opportunity to showcase the progress of Moroccan football on the international stage.
Morocco World
a day ago
- Morocco World
Lakhadim Attracts Alavés Interest as Madrid Path Narrows
Youssef Lakhadim may be on his way out of Real Madrid this summer, with Alavés pushing to sign the Moroccan left-back seen as one of La Fábrica's brightest prospects. Still only 19, Lakhadim has split his time this season between the U19s and Castilla. But with Ferland Mendy, Gerard García, and a likely new signing from Benfica all ahead of him, chances at Madrid's first team are slim. Alavés, sensing an opportunity, want him to step in should Manu Sánchez leave. Bosses at the Basque club like his profile – quick, tidy on the ball, and tactically sound. Madrid and Alavés have a good history of dealing, and a move wouldn't come as a surprise. It could mirror Antonio Blanco's transfer, which saw Madrid keep a stake in the player's future. Lakhadim has already trained with Carlo Ancelotti's squad and received matchday call-ups, but is yet to feature in a competitive game. A move to Alavés could offer the regular minutes he needs – and a proper launchpad for his professional career. Tags: Deportivo AlaveslaligaReal MadridYoussef Lakhadim
Morocco World
a day ago
- Morocco World
Toulouse Ready to Let Aboukhlal Leave
Toulouse have opened the door for Zakaria Aboukhlal to leave the club this summer, with several European sides showing interest. The Moroccan international is under contract until June 2026, but club president Damien Comolli confirmed in a press conference that they're open to offers. 'We're leaving the door open for Zakaria Aboukhlal,' he said. According to French outlet Actu , Aboukhlal is on a shortlist of players likely to leave as part of a summer shake-up at Toulouse. He's already attracted interest from Wolves, who see him as a key target to strengthen their attack. Southampton have also shown interest, though they haven't made a formal offer yet. Rennes are also said to be in the mix as they look to build for next season. The 24-year-old had a solid campaign with Toulouse, scoring 7 goals and providing 4 assists in 27 matches across all competitions. With the transfer window just around the corner, a move looks increasingly likely for one of Morocco's top attacking talents. Tags: ligue 1ToulouseZakaria Aboukhlal
