Group C leaders Netherlands will be looking to extend their successful run in the Euro 2020 Qualifiers as they host 3rd placed Northern Ireland at the Belfast Stadium. The match is scheduled for Saturday, 16th November with kickoff at 22:45 GMT.
Northern Ireland’s coach Michael Onneil faces a double responsibility after being appointed the Stoke manager.
Northern Ireland are currently 3rd in Group C with a total tally of 12 points of 12 with two losses in their previous last 2 matches.
Ronald Koeman’s side are first in the Group C with a goal difference separating them from second placed Germany. The team has registered only one lost in their previous last 5 matches. The resurgence is posting a threat to the Euro 2020 qualifiers title run.
Northern Ireland vs. Netherlands Head to Head
Both teams have played two games together with both times Netherlands picking up the wins. Here is a look at the side results from the two matches:
Netherlands 3-1 N. Ireland
Netherlands 6-0 N. Ireland
Here is a look at the past five previous matches played by both sides:
Northern Ireland 0-2 Deutschland
Deutschland 2-4 Northern Ireland
Vitryssland 0-1 Northern Ireland
Vitryssland 1-2 Northern Ireland
Estland 1-2 Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland 0-4 Estland
Northern Ireland Teams News
Michael Onneil recently included defensive duo of Craig Cathcart and Michael Smith as part of this 24 man squad. The duo had recently picked up injuries but are back to action.
A major return to the side is Jamal Lewis who was out of action for a month following the defeat to the Dutch.
First call up and uncapped international St. Johnstone winger, Matthew Kennedy is set to maintain his position in the 25 man squad.
Homegrown talent Lavery is the only Irish representative with the 20 year old being in form for Linfield with a total goal tally of 12 in all competitions.
Netherland Team News
There is a cloud of doubt of the availability of Cahmpions League winner and Liverpool’s midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum. This follows the short spell of illness during training which led to be allowed to rest.
Ronald Koeman recently called up AZ Alkamaar goalkeeper Marco Bizot as part of the Dutch’s side following the unfitness of Kenneth Veemer.
Forward Memphis Depay is still a doubt to feature in the starting lineup after picking a thigh injury which ruled him out of the match against Belarus.
Prediction and Odds
Netherlands enter the match are the favorites to win with a diverse squad of experienced players. Northern Ireland have been struggling in their past matches to register a win.
Netherlands win – 1.455
Goals Over 2.5 – 1.94
Both Teams to Score (No) – 1.736
Double Chance – 1.23
