Historical giants clash in a semifinal that will be remembered in the story books. England with its team mixed with players in their prime and a team filled with sparking young players who are eager to showcase their talent at the biggest stage. Netherlands with its electrified orange aura, with players so connected with the belief that they can overcome the toughest of team will be played today in legendary city of Dortmund.
Keys to Win:
England have shown hints of sparks from their young players. I believe Southgate is on a verge of figuring out his tactics on who to be in the starting eleven, but more importantly who to bring in off the bench to help the team get over the hump. I believe if Cole Palmer have deserved to get more minutes, I would not be surprised if he is in the starting eleven. Although England have been playing boring football this summer, I think implementing the younger players in the squad will give England more chances and opportunities. If England look at Spain with Lamine Yamal, Olmo and Nico Williams how they have taken the Euros by storm, I believe England has the same capabilities with their young talent. I want to see Bellingham, Cole, Foden in the middle and Saka and Alex Arnold on the wings with Kane as the central striker.
Netherlands have shown great promise during the knockout stages. They had a hard time against Turkey and in my mind got away with luck. Netherlands have shown throughout the knockout stages that they are one well connected unit, that tend to slow down the pace of the game, however all of a sudden we see a long ball from the back of the field up towards Gakpo, Memphis or Dumfries who when are willing to take risk does create chances for the team. Same energy and strategy carried out in perfection will get Netherlands over the hump against England. I believe the key player though is Xavi, if he is aggressive and bring out his inner samba skills, will take England by surprise.
Prediction:
I believe this will be a slow game with chances will come in the second half. England will win 1:0. To know more, click here