The stage is set for a thrilling Euro 2024 quarter-final clash between the Netherlands and Turkey this Saturday evening at Berlin’s Olympiastadion. Both sides secured contrasting victories in the last round and will be brimming with confidence as they chase a place in the semi-finals.
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Netherlands Eye Repeat Glory
The Dutch, despite a shaky start to the tournament, have found their footing and are now just three wins away from lifting the coveted Henri Delaunay trophy. Coached by legendary midfielder Ronald Koeman, who was part of the Netherlands’ only major men’s international trophy win in 1988, the Oranje are dreaming of replicating that feat.
Youngster Xavi Simons is blossoming, while in-form forward Cody Gakpo, with three goals and two Player of the Match awards to his name, is a leading contender for the Golden Boot.
Turkey: Resilience and Young Talent
Turkey got off to a flying start in their last-16 encounter, scoring the fastest ever goal in a Euro knockout round. They faced a late scare against Austria but held on thanks to a stunning save by goalkeeper Mert Gunok. Notably, the match featured the first time two teenagers, Kenan Yildiz and Arda Guler, started together in a European Championship knockout phase.
However, Turkey will be without key players due to suspension, including center-back Merih Demiral and midfielders Orkun Kokcu and Ismail Yuksek. Discipline has been a concern for the Crescent-Stars throughout the tournament.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
The Netherlands are likely to stick with a familiar lineup, with the only question mark being the right-wing spot. Donyell Malen, who impressed after coming off the bench against Romania, could replace the injured Steven Bergwijn.
Turkey will welcome back captain Hakan Calhanoglu but will miss the suspended midfield duo of Kokcu and Yuksek. Samet Akaydin is expected to fill in for Demiral at center-back.
Netherlands (possible): Verbruggen; Dumfries, De Vrij, Van Dijk, Ake; Schouten, Reijnders; Malen, Simons, Gakpo; Depay
Turkey (possible): Gunok; Muldur, Akaydin, Bardakci, Kadioglu; Ayhan, Yokuslu; Yildiz, Calhanoglu, Yilmaz; Guler
Prediction: A Tight Encounter
The Netherlands boast a strong record in major tournament quarter-finals, progressing from five of their last seven. However, Turkey’s attacking prowess and defensive vulnerabilities suggest a high-scoring encounter. While the Turkish fans in Germany will provide a passionate atmosphere, the Dutch may just edge this close contest.
Prediction: Netherlands 2-1 Turkey