Netherlands vs Spain – Predicted lineup and team news
The Netherlands host holders Spain in the first leg of their UEFA Nations League quarter-final this evening.
For the first time, the tournament has introduced quarter-final ties and the Oranje will hope to make home advantage count at De Kuip. Ronald Koeman's side exceeded expectations to reach the semi-finals of Euro 2024 last summer before progressing to this stage of the Nations League with a runners-up finish to Germany in League A Group 3.
𝙿𝙰𝚁𝚃 𝙾𝙽𝙴: 🇳🇱⚔️🇪🇸 #NothingLikeOranje #NEDESP pic.twitter.com/jaKvizauwA
— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) March 20, 2025
The Netherlands face a tough task against Nations League holders and reigning European champions Spain. However, the Dutch can take heart from a strong record against Spain. In the last eight meetings. the Netherlands have lost just once, in the 2010 World Cup final.
Ronald Koeman is light defensively with Nathan Ake, Stefan de Vrij and Devyne Rensch unavailable through injury. Spurs centre-back Micky van de Ven has also not been included after a spell on the sidelines, while Denzel Dumfries has withdrawn from the initial squad.
Uncapped Ajax defender Youri Baas has been called up as a replacement for Dumfries, while Brighton midfielder Mats Wieffer was a late inclusion for the injured Jerdy Schouten.
Memphis Depay has been selected despite scoring just twice in 15 games for Corinthians in 2025. The 31-year-old has 46 goals for the national team, just four short of Robin van Persie's all-time record.
Netherlands predicted XI: Verbruggen; Frimpong, De Ligt, Van Dijk, J. Timber; Gravenberch, De Jong, Reijnders; Simons, Depay, Gakpo.
The Netherlands host Spain in the first leg of their UEFA Nations League quarter-final on Thursday 20th March 2025. Kick-off at De Kuip is 19:45 GMT.
The game will not be televised in the UK. It is available to stream live via the Viaplay International YouTube channel.
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