Lars Capiau
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The semi-final match between England and the Netherlands will be an exciting one, at least that is the conclusion of the British press. On Wednesday evening, the two countries will face each other and decide who will play a European Championship final.
The Athletic sees the necessary similarities between England and the Netherlands. “A less than convincing tournament course, a national coach that few are happy with, a few comeback-wins and the feeling that you have only come this far by being on the right side of the schedule,” the newspaper summarizes.
“But still they are there, for the first time since 2004. Against Turkey they showed spirit and relied on tactical tricks from Ronald Koeman. England will have plenty to think about. Based on current form, it is too close to call“, the quality newspaper gives its verdict on the upcoming showdown.
“It is the Dutch who are standing in the way of England reaching the final,” writes the boulevardkrant The Sun. “A team with strengths, but also with weaknesses. A battle between equals.”
“A familiar shade of the Dutch will greet England in Dortmund,” the Daily Mail to the meeting in the Westfalenstadion. “Not the most brilliant the Dutch. A fairly ordinary the Dutch, even, but Ronald Koeman's team has a fighting quality and refuses to accept a defeat.”
“They benefit from that, and they are also justified in thinking that England has not left an indelible impression in this tournament either.” England managed to qualify for the semi-finals on penalties on Saturday, at the expense of Switzerland.
“What’s more, they have history on their side. The Dutch have only lost once to the English in competitive matches.” The Daily Express calls the meeting with Oranje the biggest test yet for England.
“But the Dutch have not convinced either despite reaching the last four. They can count on a strong back line with Virgil van Dijk and Nathan Aké, complemented by Memphis Depay and Cody Gakpo up front.”
Also talkSPORT talks about the 'toughest possible opponent'. “But just like England, the Dutch team is struggling with its form at this European Championship. They finished third in the group, below France and Austria.”
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