Ireland vs Netherlands, Sunday 10th September 19:45
The Republic of Ireland have it all to do when they tackle the Netherlands in their Euro 2024 qualifier on Sunday at the Aviva Stadium.
Ireland produced a dogged display against France on Thursday evening against the team ranked second in the world, but ultimately lost 2-0.
The Republic have collected just three of the 12 points they have contested to date and have to win Sunday’s game to stand any chance of progressing from Group B.
Ireland vs Netherlands Verdict:
Ireland are three points behind Greece and the Netherlands, but the Dutch have played one game less.
France’s relentless march towards Germany continued with a routine 2-0 win over Ireland on Thursday and now the Boys in Green will be hoping that form continues.
Not only is beating the Netherlands essential but they’ll need some help along the way, including France conquering all before them.
Kenny’s side can take some positives from the performance in France as they made a bright start but failed to capitalise.
They were also fairly successful in limiting space and clear-cut chances inside the 18-yard box, holding the World Cup finalists to zero big chances in the first half.
Chiedozie Ogbena’s chance in the 53rd minute was the best moment of the game for the visitors with an xG of 0.43 but he was denied by French stopper Mike Maignan.
The Netherlands were clinical as they raced into a 3-0 lead inside 40 minutes and managed the remainder of the game perfectly, limiting Greece to six shots.
Defence is going to be the key at the Aviva Stadium in a game that’s likely to be decided by one defence error or one individual moment of brilliance.
Koeman’s side is full of match-winners, but they are also severely limited given the number of injuries they have to attacking players.
Both games against France are a free hit for Ireland but it’s worth noting that the home fixture should have ended 1-1.
Benjamin Pavard’s screamer from outside the box – something Ireland seems to struggle to guard against – coupled with Mike Maignan’s elastic injury-time save robbed Ireland of what could have been a famous win.
If they can perform at the same level again and be more clinical, there is a good chance that this game will be close.
