2018-10-13 19:45 Netherlands vs Germany

On October 13, 2018, the Netherlands faced Germany in a UEFA Nations League match at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam. The Netherlands secured a convincing 3-0 victory, marking a significant moment in their resurgence on the international stage.

Key Statistics and Analysis

1. Scoreline and Goal Timings:
   • Netherlands: 3 (Virgil van Dijk 30′, Memphis Depay 86′, Georginio Wijnaldum 90+3′)
   • Germany: 0
2. Possession:
   • Germany had 58% possession, while the Netherlands had 42%. Despite Germany’s dominance in possession, the Netherlands were more effective with their chances, demonstrating efficiency and clinical finishing.
3. Shots:
   • The Netherlands registered 11 shots, with 7 on target, showcasing their ability to create and convert opportunities efficiently. Germany had 21 shots, with 4 on target, indicating their attacking intent but lack of precision in front of goal.
4. Passing Accuracy:
   • Germany displayed a high passing accuracy of 88%, completing 597 passes out of 676 attempts. The Netherlands had a passing accuracy of 81%, completing 394 passes out of 488 attempts. The Dutch focus was on direct and effective play rather than maintaining possession for extended periods.
5. Defensive Statistics:
   • The Netherlands made 17 tackles compared to Germany’s 12, reflecting their aggressive approach in breaking up Germany’s play. The match was highly competitive, with both teams committing a relatively low number of fouls.
6. Set Pieces:
   • The opening goal for the Netherlands came from a set piece, with Virgil van Dijk heading in from close range after a corner kick was not adequately cleared by the German defense. The other two goals came from counter-attacks, with Memphis Depay and Georginio Wijnaldum capitalizing on Germany’s defensive vulnerabilities.
7. Individual Performances:
   • Virgil van Dijk was a key player for the Netherlands, not only scoring the opening goal but also organizing a solid defensive effort to keep Germany at bay. Memphis Depay played a crucial role in the attack, scoring the second goal and providing constant pressure on Germany’s defense. Georginio Wijnaldum added the third goal in stoppage time, capping off a well-rounded performance.
8. Tactical Overview:
   • The Netherlands employed a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on compact defense and quick transitions from defense to attack. Germany used a 4-2-3-1 formation, with a strong emphasis on controlling possession and building play through the midfield. However, Germany struggled to break down the Dutch defense and were vulnerable to counter-attacks.
9. Disciplinary:
   • The match saw three yellow cards, two for Germany (Jerome Boateng 44′, Joshua Kimmich 61′) and one for the Netherlands (Daley Blind 51′). The fouls were tactical, aiming to disrupt the opposition’s play and prevent quick transitions.
10. Corners and Offsides:
    • Germany won 8 corners compared to the Netherlands’ 6, reflecting their territorial advantage. However, the Netherlands were more effective in defending these set pieces and using them to launch counter-attacks. Both teams were caught offside twice, indicating disciplined defensive lines and attempts to exploit gaps.

Summary

The Netherlands’ 3-0 victory over Germany in this UEFA Nations League match was a statement win, highlighting the Dutch team’s resurgence under new management. Virgil van Dijk’s opener from a set piece gave the Netherlands the lead, and they remained defensively solid throughout the match, absorbing Germany’s pressure. Late goals from Memphis Depay and Georginio Wijnaldum sealed the victory, exploiting Germany’s defensive frailties on the counter-attack. Despite Germany’s greater possession and number of shots, they were unable to convert their chances, while the Netherlands were clinical in front of goal. This match was a key moment in the Netherlands’ rebuilding process, showcasing their potential to compete at the highest level in international football.