The Netherlands, coming off a less-than-impressive group stage performance at the European Championship, will face Romania in the round of 16 on Tuesday in Munich. While the Dutch finished third in their group, narrowly avoiding a potential clash with England, their matchup against Romania presents a unique challenge. Romania, ranked 40 spots below the Netherlands in the FIFA rankings, has a history of upsetting favorites. Although they have won only two of 19 games in six Euro finals appearances and have just one victory in 14 past meetings against the Dutch, their recent performance in the group stage suggests a strong defensive approach and a dangerous counter-attacking style.
Romania, led by coach Edward Iordanescu, has instilled a strong team spirit and belief in their players, evident in their impressive 3-0 victory over Ukraine in the group stage. Their defensive discipline, a cornerstone of their game plan, could pose a significant challenge to the Dutch attack.
The Netherlands, meanwhile, has faced criticism after their group stage performances. Captain Virgil van Dijk acknowledged a possible overestimation of their abilities, while coach Ronald Koeman faces concerns about his midfield, particularly after the substitution of Joey Veerman in the last game.
The Dutch will need to be wary of the quick counter-attack led by Denis Dragus, the lone target man for Romania. However, the Dutch will be missing their left-back Nicusor Bancu, who is suspended due to two yellow cards.
The potential return of Jeremie Frimpong to the Dutch lineup is a positive for Koeman, although calls for a switch to a back five, as used under Louis van Gaal at the World Cup, were rejected by van Dijk.
Forward Cody Gakpo and Memphis Depay have been key contributors for the Dutch, while substitute attacker Wout Weghorst has proven his ability to perform under pressure. The Dutch will undoubtedly be mindful of their last-16 defeat to the Czech Republic at Euro 2020, a game where they were reduced to 10 men and succumbed to two quick goals.
This match promises to be a tense encounter with the Netherlands seeking to regain their rhythm and avoid another early exit, while Romania hopes to pull off a major upset and advance to the quarter-finals.
