The defeat against France in the first match of this group means that reigning European champions England must win against the Netherlands. Let’s be clear, this is not an easy match. This is the real group of death in the tournament being played in Switzerland. But the English have no other choice. And they have no other chance.
The Three Lions were the first team ever, after their defeat against France, to lose their European debut as reigning champions. It is a stain that must be washed away quickly, not least because the future of this European Championship is at stake. The Netherlands, on the other hand, had an easy time against Wales, but they know very well that this is a different kind of game. And the fact that a draw could be enough to then play for everything against France on the last day – who will already be qualified – could also dictate the tactical choices of the match. The other match, at 9 p.m. between France and Wales, is a foregone conclusion. The show of strength that the French put on in their opening match was important, too important to be ignored by the other teams. In this case, there are no big predictions to be made, just figuring out by how many goals France will win.
Odds comparison
England’s victory is priced at 1.85 on Goldbet and Lottomatica and 1.75 on Snai. France’s victory, on the other hand, is priced at 1.10 on Goldet and Lottomatica.
- GOLDBET – Up to €3050 on sports and casino with 200% on your first sports deposit up to €1000 MORE INFO
- SNAI – €15 free + 50% on your first deposit up to €30 MORE INFO
- LOTTOMATICA – Up to €3050 for sports and casino with 200% on your first sports deposit up to €1000 MORE INFO
The prediction
The reigning European champions have their backs against the wall and know that only a win will see them through to the next stage of the European Championship.
We expect an all-out attack from the English, who should ultimately manage to secure victory and a big step towards qualification, given their easy fixture in the final round.
ENGLAND (4-3-3): Hampton; Bronze, Williamson, Greenwood, Carter; James, Walsh, Stanway; Mead, Russo, Hemp.
NETHERLANDS (4-3-3): Van Domselaar; Casparji, Janseen, Buurman, Brugts; Groenen, Van de Donk, Kaptein; Pelova, Miedema, Roord.
POSSIBLE RESULT: 2-1
Prediction
France is not the favorite, but it is the overwhelming favorite. In a match that will see at least three goals scored, all by one side. Perhaps even four. A match that will never be in doubt. The gap between the two sides is too wide.
Probable line-ups for France-Wales
FRANCE (4-3-3): Peyraud-Magnin; De Almeida, Lakrar, Sombath, Bacha; Karchoui, Jean-Francois, Geyoro; Baltimore, Katoto, Cascarino.
WALES (4-3-3): Clark; Green, Roberts, Evans, Woodham; James, Fishlock, Ladd; Holland, Cain, Morgan.