Overview
In the first leg, Spain and the Netherlands created an exciting goal feast, ending in a 2-2 draw. Nico Williams opened the scoring for La Roja, before Gakpo and Reijnders put the Netherlands up 2-1. Mikel Merino scored the winning goal to seal the 2-2 draw in extra time.
The draw on the opponent's field can be considered a success for Spain. Now La Roja will play the second leg at home, which is a favorite venue for the reigning EURO 2024 champions. Spain have been unbeaten in 10 consecutive matches at their home ground, including 9 wins and 1 draw.
In the last 5 home matches, coach Luis de la Fuente's team scored a total of 17 goals, an average of 3.4 goals/match. Meanwhile, they have only conceded 3 goals in this period.
For the Netherlands, not being able to finish Spain in the first leg will make them extremely difficult in the upcoming rematch. The reason is that coach Ronald Koeman's team often does not play well on away matches.
In the Nations League group stage, the Netherlands drew twice with lower-rated opponents Hungary and Bosnia, as well as lost to Germany. Their total goals in these 3 matches are only 2 goals.
Head-to-head history is in the Netherlands' favor as they have only lost to Spain once in their last nine meetings. However, with the current situation of both teams, the victory is leaning towards La Roja.
Personnel situation
Pau Cubarsi was forced off injured in the first leg and has withdrawn from the Spanish squad. The Barcelona centre-back will not be able to feature in this match.
On the other side of the front line, Jurrien Timber continues to be absent due to illness, while Hato is suspended after receiving a red card. Ian Maatsen received a late call-up to replace Hato in the squad.
Expected lineup:
Spain: Simon, Porro, Le Normand, Huijsen, Cucurella, Pedri, Zubimendi, Ruiz, Yamal, Morata, N. Williams.
Netherlands: Verbruggen, Frimpong, Van Hecke, Van Dijk, Geertruida, Reijnders, De Jong, Simons, Kluivert, Gakpo, Depay.
The match between Spain and the Netherlands takes place at 2:45 am on March 24 (Vietnam time).
