Overview
The situation in Group 3 of League A this season has been decided after the 5th round. Accordingly, Bosnia & Herzegovina was officially relegated after a 0-7 loss to Germany. Coach Sergej Barbarez's team was completely overwhelmed in terms of the game and could not withstand the fierce attacks from the opponent.
Throughout their journey in this year's Nations League, Bosnia & Herzegovina's defense has played very poorly and has conceded 16 goals in 5 matches.
In fact, the 0-7 loss to Germany was their ninth defeat in their last 10 games. Their home form is also poor with five losses in their last five games.
Meanwhile, the Netherlands booked their place in the quarter-finals with a 4-0 win over Hungary, a victory that eased the tension after a three-match winless streak and confirmed the Netherlands' progress.
With their qualification already secured, coach Ronald Koeman is likely to give the reserve players a chance to play. Facing a Bosnia & Herzegovina side in crisis, this is the best chance for Nick Olij, Paul van Hecke, Jorrel Hato, Devyne Rensch, Quiten Timber and Justin Kluivert to show their mettle.
The Netherlands have beaten Bosnia & Herzegovina in their last two meetings, scoring eight goals, including a 5-2 win in the first leg. With their superior class and form, Koeman’s side are likely to take all three points again.
Human resources situation
The Netherlands had no new injuries after the win over Hungary. With the goal no longer important, Koeman is expected to change the lineup.
On the other side of the front line, the visitors can welcome the return of Nikola Katic after suspension. However, Jusuf Gazibegovic and Nihad Mujakic are still absent due to injury.
38-year-old veteran striker Edin Dzeko did not play last weekend, so he could start alongside Ermedin Demirovic. In midfield, Benjamin Tahirovic is likely to keep his place.
Expected lineup:
Bosnia & Herzegovina: Vasilj, Dedic, Katic, Bicakcic, Barisic, Burnic, Tahirovic, Huseinbasic, Hajradinovic, Dzeko, Demirovic.
Netherlands: Flekken, Rensch, De Ligt, De Vrij, Hato, Wieffer, Timber, Frimpong, Koopmeiners, Lang, Brobbey.
The match between Bosnia & Herzegovina and the Netherlands takes place at 2:45 a.m. on November 20 (Vietnam time).
