Overview
The Netherlands are off to a flying start in the 2024-2025 Nations League. They opened with a 5-2 win over Bosnia & Herzegovina, followed by a 2-2 draw against Germany.
Coach Ronald Koeman's team currently has 4 points and will compete fiercely with the German team for the top spot this season.
To realize the above ambition, the Netherlands must defeat the remaining two weak teams in the group. With a squad of stars such as Van Dijk, Gakpo, Gravenberch or Simons, the Netherlands is fully capable of winning all 3 points against the host Hungary.
Gakpo was particularly impressive at EURO 2024 with 3 goals and was the tournament's joint top scorer. While playing for Liverpool, despite not being a regular starter, Gakpo still showed his star quality every time he entered the field.
On the other side of the front line, Hungary had a difficult start to this year's Nations League. After a heavy 0-5 defeat to Germany in the opening match, they also failed to win at home against Bosnia & Herzegovina with a 0-0 draw.
Hungary's attack is in serious trouble as they have failed to score in five consecutive matches. The last Hungarian goal scored by Barnabas Varga was on July 15 at EURO 2024.
With poor performances, it will be difficult for Hungary to find points against the Netherlands.
The Netherlands have an impressive head-to-head record against Hungary, having won their last eight meetings, stretching back to 1985. The most recent clash between the two sides was in 2013 when the Netherlands recorded a resounding 8-1 victory over Hungary.
Human resources situation
Hungary will be without number one goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi for this match.
On the other side of the front line, the Netherlands also has its own concerns, especially in defense when Timber and Ake are both injured.
Expected lineup:
Hungary: Dibusz, Botka, Dardai, Orban, Bolla, Schafer, Nagy, Kerkez, Sallai, Szoboszlai, Varga.
Netherlands: Verbruggen, Dumfries, Van Dijk, Van de Ven, Hato, Reijnders, Gravenberch, Malen, Simons, Gakpo, Zirkzee.
The match between Hungary and the Netherlands takes place at 1:45 a.m. on October 12 (Vietnam time).
