(Football news) Netherlands take on hosts Qatar in Group A knowing that a win or a draw will be enough to secure passage into the Round of 16. They could also progress into the next round if Ecuador defeat Senegal in the other fixture while Qatar will hope to get at least one win in the World Cup, having already been eliminated from the competition.
Louis Van Gaal’s side began their campaign with a 2-0 win over Senegal and drew their next match 1-1 against Ecuador. It would be a shock if the Netherlands don’t qualify from the position they are in, which could potentially be even more disappointing than missing out on the tournament entirely in 2018.
If Netherlands finish first in Group A, they will take on runners-up of Group B which will be one of England, Iran, USA or Wales as all four sides still have a shot at going through. Qatar on the other hand have lost their opening two games, losing 2-0 to Ecuador and 2-1 to Senegal. The host nation are playing for pride in what could be their last appearance at a World Cup for a long time, but will be back in competitive action in the Gulf Cup of Nations.
The two sides have never faced each other in a competitive fixture and if Qatar could somehow secure a win in this match, it would go a long way in consoling the home fans who have been disappointed with their teams performance so far. In team news, Memphis Depay could make his first start in the World Cup after regaining his fitness. Jurrien Timber will hope to be picked over Matthijs de Ligt while Steven Berghuis might be selected over Teun Koopmeiners. Cody Gakpo is expected to feature behind Memphis Depay and Steven Bergwijn with Davy Klaassen being dropped to the bench.
As for Qatar, Mohammed Muntari could make a start after scoring against Senegal while Abdulaziz Hatem could also feature in the starting lineup. Almoez Ali will join Muntari in attack. Captain Hassan Al-Haydos, who has a record of 36 goals in 170 appearances, will feature in a deeper role. A straightforward victory for the Netherlands is the most likely outcome from this fixture.
Also read: 2022 World Cup: Brazil progress to knockouts with win over Switzerland
