England Below-19s face a make-or-break conflict on Friday after they tackle group leaders Netherlands Below-19s within the last spherical of Group B fixtures on the European U19 Championship.
Already assured of a semi-final place, the Dutch can afford to rotate, whereas England should win to ensure development, with Norway and Germany nonetheless within the hunt for second place.
Match Overview
After back-to-back attracts in opposition to Norway (2-2) and Germany (5-5), England Below-19s discover themselves on the brink. Whereas they’ve proven combating spirit—most notably coming from 5-1 down to attract with Germany—they’ve but to register a win and now face their hardest group opponent.
The Three Lions sit second with two factors, one forward of Germany and Norway. A draw might nonetheless see them by relying on different outcomes, however a win would safe qualification regardless.
Martijn Reuser’s Netherlands facet have been dominant in Group B, beating Germany 3-0 and Norway 2-0 to e-book their spot within the last 4. With the strain off, they could decide to relaxation key names in preparation for a semi-final conflict in opposition to the Group A runners-up—presently Denmark.
Regardless of rotating, the Dutch nonetheless pose a critical menace, having scored 5 and conceded none thus far. For England, it’s a query of whether or not they can discover stability on the again with out shedding their attacking edge.
Crew Information
Netherlands are anticipated to shuffle their deck, with Kasper Boogard, Owen Panneflek, and Sven van der Plas pushing for begins. Don-Angelo Konadu—who has impressed within the last third—ought to retain his place as the focus in assault.
For England, no new harm issues have surfaced. Ethan Wheatley, who scored within the thriller in opposition to Germany, ought to proceed to steer the road. Kadan Younger is in line for a attainable begin down the best as Will Antwi considers minor tweaks to energise his facet.
Tactical Evaluation
England’s vulnerability in defence has been evident, conceding seven targets in two video games. Their excessive press and attacking transitions have appeared promising, however defensive construction stays a serious concern.
The Netherlands have impressed with stability—disciplined on the again, medical within the last third, and composed in possession. Even with rotation, they’ll seemingly attempt to management the sport’s rhythm and exploit England’s defensive lapses.
England might go for a extra compact setup early on earlier than opening up as wanted, with set items and transitions prone to play a giant function of their sport plan.
Find out how to Watch
Followers can comply with the motion reside on UEFA.television, the BBC Sport web site, and chosen worldwide broadcasters. Kick-off is about for five:00 PM native time.
Predictions
Softfootball Prediction: Netherlands U19 2-2 England U19
With the Dutch anticipated to relaxation key gamers, England might seize the chance to push for an important end result. A draw might show sufficient relying on different outcomes, however count on a tightly contested match stuffed with attacking aptitude and tense moments.
