Spain, the defending champions, are set to clash with the Netherlands in the first leg of their UEFA Nations League quarterfinal at De Kuip Stadium in Rotterdam this Thursday, March 20, 2025. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:45 p.m. CET in Italy, which translates to 7:45 p.m. GMT in the UK, 3:45 p.m. ET in the United States, and 6:45 a.m. AEDT in Australia on Friday, March 21, 2025.
La Roja, under the guidance of coach Luis de la Fuente, topped Nations League Group A4 with an impressive 16 points. Unbeaten since their Euro 2024 triumph last summer, Spain aims to maintain its winning momentum in this knockout stage of the tournament.
The Netherlands, managed by Ronald Koeman, finished second in their group behind Germany and must address defensive vulnerabilities if they aspire to progress. Having conceded seven goals during the group phase, the Dutch will look to solidify their backline ahead of this crunch fixture.
Regarding player availability, Dani Olmo is expected to start for Spain following his recovery from a recent calf injury. Conversely, Koeman's squad is grappling with several absentees due to injuries, including Denzel Dumfries and Jerdy Schouten, which will force him to make adjustments in his lineup.
The match will be broadcast in the United States on Fox Sports 1, allowing fans to tune in to the action. For those without access, the matchup can also be streamed via platforms such as Sling TV and ViX. In the UK, Amazon Prime Video will show select Nations League matches, including this fixture, while fans in Australia can catch the action on Optus Sport. Canadians wishing to follow the game can do so through DAZN Canada.
The impending match is not just crucial as a standalone event, with the winners over these two legs to face either Croatia or France in the semifinals come June 2025. Historical context adds weight to the encounter, with Spain aiming to extend its current form and the Netherlands seeking redemption following past near misses in the tournament.
As both teams finalize preparations, it remains to be seen which of the national teams will assert dominance in this highly anticipated quarterfinal. The stage is set for a riveting display of football as Spain attempts to secure a strong position for the return leg at Mestalla in Valencia.
This showdown at De Kuip promises to be a battle of tactical prowess, as both coaches strategize how best to utilize their available talent. Spain has exhibited consistency under De la Fuente, boasting a record of 23 wins, three draws, and just two defeats in his tenure, while the Netherlands aims to find resilience following a turbulent group stage.
So, mark your calendars and set your timers; this match could be a defining moment in the path to the UEFA Nations League title.
