Germany vs Netherlands – UEFA Nations League – Preview, Team News and Updates

Football fans should strap themselves in as one of the fiercest rivalries in European football is set to reignite. Yes, I'm talking about Germany’s Nations League match against Netherlands. After sharing the spoils last month, Germany and Netherlands meet each other once again at Allianz Arena later tonight.

Both Germany and Netherlands have made unbeaten starts to their respective Nations League campaigns. The last time these two rivals met, the game ended in an enthralling 2-2 draw at the Johan Cruyff Arena. Therefore, fans are expecting another thriller in tonight’s reverse fixture. At the moment, Die Mannschaft holds a slim two-point advantage over the Netherlands at the top of League A Group 3. And after dropping vital points against Hungary on Saturday, Ronald Koeman’s men know that a win over Germany tonight is their only ticket to leapfrog into first place. With the pressure mounting and the stakes higher than ever, which European powerhouse will rise to the occasion and seize this crucial opportunity? 

Germany vs Netherlands – Match Preview 

Under Julian Nagelsmann, Germany are starting to look like serious contenders. Since taking over from Hansi Flick, Nagelsmann has guided the German national team to 9 wins in 16 matches. Therefore, many fans remain bullish about Germany’s chances to clinch the Nations League, which would be their first major trophy since their 2014 triumph. But before that, Die Mannschaft would have to navigate a tricky set of fixtures that begins with welcoming their traditional rivals –Netherlands – to the Allianz Arena. Germany’s only dropped points in the competition came in their reverse fixture against Netherlands.  

However, Germany were given a scare in their previous Nations League tie against Bosnia and Herzegovina. A brace from Stuttgart’s Denis Undav handed the Germans a comfortable two-goal lead, but Edin Dzeko’s strike twenty minutes from time made it a nervy ending for Julian Nagelsmann’s men. Despite that, the 4x FIFA World Cup winner would feel confident going into their home tie against Netherlands. The Germans have been one of the freest scoring teams in the competition, having already scored nine goals in three games.  

But despite their prowess in front of goal, Netherlands would pose a formidable treat to Germany’s top spot in League A Group 3. While they disappointed their fanbase by dropping points against Hungary, the Dutch still have a healthy lead over Hungary and Bosnia and Herzegovina – who have yet to register a win in the competition. This means that Germany and the Netherlands are virtually assured of a place in the knockout rounds. However, the battle for the top spot is heating up, and tonight's clash will play a pivotal role in determining which nation claims first place. However, the Dutch will have to navigate this challenge without their star defender, Virgil Van Dijk, who was sent off during the match against Hungary. 

Germany vs Netherlands – Team News and Updates 

Netherlands, despite facing challenges since his move to Manchester United. The Dutch are also grappling with a shortage of left-back options after Daley Blind's retirement and injuries to Nathan Ake, Jurrien Timber, and Quilindschy Hartman. As a result, Micky van de Ven will likely be shifted back into that position once again. In midfield, Koeman is feeling the pinch too, with Frenkie de Jong sidelined for the long haul and Teun Koopmeiners, Jerdy Schouten, and Joey Veerman all unavailable. 

On the German side, the retirement of Manuel Neuer has finally opened the door for Marc-Andre ter Stegen to become the starting goalkeeper after a decade as the backup, but his season was cut short due to a serious injury against Villarreal last month. Adding to Nagelsmann's woes, two of Germany’s most promising talents, Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz, are also out with injuries.  

Furthermore, Niclas Fullkrug is struggling to find his form at West Ham, which has led to Tim Kleindienst and Jonathan Burkardt making their debuts against Bosnia. Keep an eye on Stuttgart's Undav, though. He’s been on fire, scoring eight goals in just eight games, including one in the previous match against the Netherlands. 

Germany’s Possible Starting XI: Nubel; Kimmich, Rudiger, Tah, Mittelstadt; Andrich, Pavlovic, Gross; Wirtz, Undav, Gnabry. 

Netherlands’ Possible Starting XI: Verbruggen; Dumfries, De Vrij, De Ligt, Van de Ven; Gravenberch, Reijnders, Q Timber; Simons, Zirkzee, Gakpo. 

Last Five Results of Germany and Netherlands 

Germany: W, L, W, D, W 

Netherlands: W, L, W, D, D 

Germany vs Netherlands – Kick-Off Time and Date 

The game is scheduled to take place on 15th October 2024 (Tuesday) at Allianz Arena in Munich. The match will kick off at 12:15 AM (Indian Standard Time).    

Also Read: Belgium vs France – UEFA Nations League – Preview, Team News and Updates