Netherlands’ final Group A game at the 2022 World Cup comes against host nation Qatar.
The Oranje were very poor in their 1-1 draw with Ecuador on Friday, registering just two shots in the entire game.
Louis van Gaal’s men need a point to secure a route to the last 16, while a win should be enough to secure top spot depending on Ecuador’s result against Senegal.
Here’s how the Dutch could line up.
GK: Andries Noppert – Looked a bit flat-footed at time against Ecuador, but that’s understandable given he’s 6’8.
CB: Jurrien Timber – Was much more comfortable in this role than Matthijs de Ligt, just as the Bayern Munich defender predicted.
CB: Virgil van Dijk – Torn apart on Dutch TV for not closing down Pervis Estupinan in the lead up to Ecuador’s equaliser.
CB: Nathan Ake – Played Enner Valencia onside for that goal. Wasn’t a great day for Dutch defenders.
RM: Denzel Dumfries – Another poor performer on Friday looking to bounce back before the knockout stages.
CM: Steven Berghuis – Could come back into the starting lineup for the ineffective Teun Koopmeiners.
CM: Frenkie de Jong – Played well this tournament but was criticised for not taking the Ecuador tie by the scruff of the neck.
LM: Daley Blind – Netherlands really lack a quick left wing-back, but Blind continues to be in favour over Tyrell Malacia.
AM: Cody Gakpo – May be shifted back into the hole in order to accomodate another attacker.
CF: Memphis Depay – Has been used sparingly by Van Gaal so far as he steps up his recovery from injury.
CF: Steven Bergwijn – Played only the first half on Friday so should bring fresher legs.
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