The Netherlands will host Spain in the first leg of the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals on Thursday, March 20, 2025. Taking place at De Kuip in Rotterdam, the match kicks off at 19:45 GMT. This pivotal showdown marks the Dutch's attempt to assert home advantage against the reigning champions of Europe and current Nations League holders, Spain. With both teams looking to secure their spot in the semi-finals, the pressure is on.
Under the guidance of coach Ronald Koeman, the Netherlands exceeded expectations reaching the semi-finals of Euro 2024 last summer. After finishing as runners-up to Germany in League A Group 3, the Dutch squad has gained momentum, seeking to build on that success in this new contested format of the Nations League.
However, they face a formidable challenge against Spain, a team that has historically troubled them. Despite a strong Dutch showing - losing only once to Spain in their last eight encounters - that lone defeat came during the 2010 World Cup final, a painful reminder for the Netherlands. Especially as they prepare to enter this quarter-final with several key players missing due to injuries.
Among the absent players is Nathan Ake, along with Stefan de Vrij and Devyne Rensch, who are all unavailable due to injuries. Additionally, the Spurs center-back Micky van de Ven has also been ruled out. In response, Koeman has called up uncapped Ajax defender Youri Baas and Brighton midfielder Mats Wieffer, a late addition to the squad.
Memphis Depay, with 46 goals for the national team, has been selected despite a lackluster record at club level, scoring only twice in 15 matches for Corinthians in 2025. He is determined to inch closer to Robin van Persie's all-time record.
As the match day approaches, anticipation soars, especially with fans eager to see how Koeman's line-up will perform. The expected formation includes goalkeeper Verbruggen; defenders Frimpong, De Ligt, Van Dijk, and J. Timber; while midfield stalwarts Gravenberch, De Jong, and Reijnders anchor the middle; up front, Simons, Depay, and Gakpo are set to challenge the Spanish defense.
The visiting side, Spain, is also dealing with their own injury woes. Manager Luis de la Fuente has had to make tough choices, leaving out stars including Inigo Martinez and Marc Casado. However, the spotlight will be on young winger Lamine Yamal, who is poised to earn his 18th senior cap alongside seasoned forwards Nico Williams and Alvaro Morata.
Fans looking to catch the action can live stream the match, which won’t be televised in the UK. It will be available through the Viaplay International YouTube channel, ensuring that audiences can stay engaged with the match, irrespective of geographic restrictions.
In terms of betting odds, Spain is favored to win, with a prediction of them taking the first leg with a 3-1 scoreline in their favor. Bookmakers have set the odds with Spain winning at +130, while a Dutch victory stands at +210.
As both sides prepare to clash, the implications of this match extend beyond just a quarter-final spot; the victor will progress to the semi-finals against the winner of the Croatia-France tie scheduled for June, setting the stage for what promises to be an enthralling tournament.
Whatever the outcome, football fans are in for a treat as two of the game’s esteemed nations collide in a historic setting.
