The Dutch, under Van Gaal, were only eliminated from the last World Cup by Argentina on penalties in the playoffs. Under Koeman, they reached the Euro semifinals and confidently topped their qualifying group. However, there were concerns about their less-than-stellar results in friendlies, and in the first group stage match, they let a win slip against Japan, conceding for a 2-2 draw in the 89th minute. Still, they went on to convincingly defeat both Sweden and Tunisia.
Morocco raised expectations for themselves in Qatar by reaching the semifinals of the last World Cup. Additionally, they not only comfortably won their qualifying group with the maximum of eight victories but also claimed trophies at the African Nations Championship, the Arab Cup, and the Africa Cup of Nations (though in the latter, Senegal ultimately won the final on penalties). In the current tournament, Morocco has consistently managed to score first. While Brazil fought back for a 1-1 draw, Morocco then went on to defeat both Scotland and Morocco. Saibari, who scored in every match, has become one of the revelations of the championship.
Brobbey and company currently average 2.4 goals scored and 0.9 conceded per match. The North African giants are also impressive: 1.9 goals scored on average and just 0.7 conceded per game.
Previous Matches: Netherlands vs Morocco
Interestingly, all three previous encounters ended 2-1. The Dutch won twice by this scoreline, while Morocco claimed victory once.
The nominal hosts are favored, but their opponents are sure to put up a fight. We believe in a result of “total over 2.0 goals” (odds – 1.65).
Netherlands vs Morocco: Key Statistics and Trends
Netherlands have won three of their last four matches
70% of Netherlands’ matches end with goals from both teams and an average total of 3.3 goals per match
Morocco have won five of their last seven games
50% of Morocco’s matches see goals from both teams and an average total of 2.6 goals per match
Netherlands vs Morocco: Probable Starting Lineups
The Netherlands are expected to play a 1-4-3-3 formation (probable lineup): Verbruggen – Aké, Van Dijk, Van Hecke, Dumfries – Reijnders, De Jong, Gravenberch – Gakpo, Brobbey, Malen
Morocco are set to line up in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (probable lineup): Bounou – Salah-Eddine, Riad, Alal, Hakimi – Amrabat, El Ainaoui – El Khannous, Saibari, Brahim Diaz – El Kaabi.
