©Miguel MEDINA / AFP
Netherlands defender Micky van de Ven expects the Euro 2024 semi-final against England on Wednesday to be a Premier League-type clash.
The Tottenham center-back is one of several Dutch players who play in England, along with Liverpool duo Virgil van Dijk and Cody Gakpo, among others.
England's matches have been slow-paced, largely dull affairs this summer, but the meeting with the Dutch in Dortmund could produce a higher-octane duel.
"I think so," Van de Ven told reporters Monday when asked if he anticipated a Premier League-style affair.
Considering the quality of players from both teams, one can anticipate a high level of rhythm and intensity in the game.
Ideally, our team will dominate possession against England, forcing them to expend more energy.
Gakpo said the Dutch would try to stop Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham from deciding the game.
The 21-year-old scored a brilliant overhead kick against Slovakia in the last 16 to save England when they were on the verge of elimination.
Gakpo noted that the player is having a very impressive season, describing him as a world-class player who scored a fantastic goal.
He pointed out that while they must keep an eye on this particular player, there are several other key players on their opponent's team who also deserve attention.
Gakpo highlighted that both teams boast strong squads.
England reached the semi-finals by defeating Switzerland 5-3 on penalties after a goalless draw, and Gakpo noted the quality of the Three Lions' spot-kicks.
The left-winger commented on the effectiveness of their penalties, noting the quality of the players who took them, many of whom regularly take penalties for their clubs.
He recognized their skill and proficiency in penalty situations, expressing hope that if the semi-final had gone to penalties, their team would have emerged victorious.
The Netherlands reached their first Euros semi-final since 2004 by coming from behind to beat Turkey 2-1 on Saturday, building on reaching the World Cup quarter-final in Qatar two years ago.
"We are a step further than the previous tournament, and I am happy that I can be part of this too," added Gakpo.
With AFP
The Tottenham center-back is one of several Dutch players who play in England, along with Liverpool duo Virgil van Dijk and Cody Gakpo, among others.
England's matches have been slow-paced, largely dull affairs this summer, but the meeting with the Dutch in Dortmund could produce a higher-octane duel.
"I think so," Van de Ven told reporters Monday when asked if he anticipated a Premier League-style affair.
Considering the quality of players from both teams, one can anticipate a high level of rhythm and intensity in the game.
Ideally, our team will dominate possession against England, forcing them to expend more energy.
Gakpo said the Dutch would try to stop Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham from deciding the game.
The 21-year-old scored a brilliant overhead kick against Slovakia in the last 16 to save England when they were on the verge of elimination.
Gakpo noted that the player is having a very impressive season, describing him as a world-class player who scored a fantastic goal.
He pointed out that while they must keep an eye on this particular player, there are several other key players on their opponent's team who also deserve attention.
Gakpo highlighted that both teams boast strong squads.
England reached the semi-finals by defeating Switzerland 5-3 on penalties after a goalless draw, and Gakpo noted the quality of the Three Lions' spot-kicks.
The left-winger commented on the effectiveness of their penalties, noting the quality of the players who took them, many of whom regularly take penalties for their clubs.
He recognized their skill and proficiency in penalty situations, expressing hope that if the semi-final had gone to penalties, their team would have emerged victorious.
The Netherlands reached their first Euros semi-final since 2004 by coming from behind to beat Turkey 2-1 on Saturday, building on reaching the World Cup quarter-final in Qatar two years ago.
"We are a step further than the previous tournament, and I am happy that I can be part of this too," added Gakpo.
With AFP
This Is Beirut
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