The Daily Star Ireland
Bosnia is set to take on the Netherlands on Tuesday in a much-anticipated Nations League match. Here’s a detailed look at both teams’ recent form, head-to-head record, and predictions for the game.
Bosnia
Bosnia enters the match seeking to bounce back from their recent 2-0 defeat to Hungary in the Nations League. Despite dominating possession with 66% and taking 12 shots, only three were on target. Hungary capitalized on their chances, with Dominik Szoboszlai scoring both goals.
Offensively, Bosnia has struggled, scoring just three goals in their last six matches while conceding 13. To compete effectively against the Netherlands, they will need to improve their efficiency in front of goal and tighten up defensively.
Netherlands
The Netherlands also comes into the game looking to recover from a disappointing 1-0 loss to Germany in their previous Nations League outing. In that match, the Netherlands held 51% possession but managed only three shots, with just one on target. Germany created more opportunities, registering 13 attempts, five on target, and securing the win through Jamie Leweling’s goal.
Defensively, the Netherlands has shown weaknesses, conceding in each of their last six games and allowing nine goals during that span. A more solid defensive performance will be key to turning their fortunes around.
Head-to-Head Record
The last encounter between these two teams was on September 7, 2024, during the Nations League, where the Netherlands emerged victorious with a commanding 5-2 win. The Dutch dominated possession with 76% and unleashed 28 shots, nine of which were on target. Goals came from Joshua Zirkzee, Tijani Reijnders, Cody Gakpo, Wout Weghorst, and Xavi Simons.
Bosnia managed only four attempts, with Ermedin Demirović and Edin Džeko scoring their two goals. The match was officiated by Donatas Rumšas.
Team News
Both teams have fully fit squads for this match. Bosnia’s coach Sergej Barbarez and Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman will have the advantage of selecting from healthy rosters.
Prediction
The Netherlands is expected to control possession and generate several scoring opportunities. While Bosnia might find the net, their recent struggles in both attack and defense suggest they will have difficulty containing the Dutch.
The predicted result is a 3-1 victory for the Netherlands, driven by their superior attacking capabilities. Experts anticipate fewer than 3.5 goals overall but see the Netherlands securing a clear and decisive win.
