The Mestalla Stadium in Valencia plays host to a blockbuster UEFA Nations League quarter-final second leg, as reigning champions Spain welcome the Netherlands, with the tie finely balanced at 2-2 after an absorbing first encounter in Rotterdam.
Thursdayβs first leg saw Luis de la Fuenteβs side take an early lead through Nico Williams, only for the Oranje to hit back via Cody Gakpo and Tijjani Reijnders, before Mikel Merino salvaged a draw in stoppage time.
With a semi-final against France or Croatia on the line, both sides will be desperate to seize the initiative on Sunday evening.
Spain are unbeaten in 17 competitive matches, a run stretching back to their shock defeat to Scotland in March 2023.
The reigning Nations League champions remain in sparkling form despite being frustrated in Rotterdam. A 17-match unbeaten streak and victory in all three home Nations League group games underline their strength at home.
However, they face a psychological hurdle β Spain have only beaten the Netherlands once in their last nine meetings.
π Last 5 matches: β
β
β
β
π€
β½ Last match: 2-2 draw vs Netherlands (A)
Γlvaro Morata β Spainβs talisman; theyβve won by 2+ goals in his last five international scoring games.
Nico Williams β Scored and assisted in the first leg.
Pedri & Ruiz β Controlling the midfield tempo.
β Pau Cubarsi (injured β withdrawn from squad)
β
Dean Huijsen expected to make first start in central defence
β Wins: 3 | β Losses: 0 | β½ Goals scored: 7 | πͺ Goals conceded: 1
Ronald Koemanβs side produced a spirited performance in the first leg and will believe they can get the job done in Spain. They were reduced to 10 men after Jorrel Hatoβs red card, but still showed their growing quality.
That said, just one win in their last six matches is a concern, and theyβve struggled away in this Nations League cycle.
π Last 5 matches: π€βπ€β
π€
β½ Last match: 2-2 draw vs Spain (H)
Cody Gakpo β Scored in the first leg and thrives in big games.
Memphis Depay β Creative outlet with proven goalscoring ability.
Tijjani Reijnders β Dynamic presence in midfield.
β Jorrel Hato (suspended β red card)
β Jurrien Timber (illness)
β
Ian Maatsen called up
π Frimpong and Geertruida to switch flanks in defence
β Wins: 0 | π€ Draws: 2 | β Losses: 1 | β½ Goals scored: 2 | π¬ Goals conceded: 4
β
Spain 2-2 Netherlands β Mar 2025 (Nations League QF Leg 1)
π€ Spain 1-1 Netherlands β Nov 2020 (Friendly)
β Netherlands 5-1 Spain β Jun 2014 (World Cup)
β
Spain 1-0 Netherlands β Jul 2010 (World Cup Final)
Spain are unbeaten in 17 competitive matches (W14, D3)
Netherlands have won just one of their last six internationals
The last three Spain vs Netherlands meetings have produced over 2.5 goals
β½ Prediction: Spain 2-1 Netherlands (AET)
Advertisement:
Spainβs depth and home support should see them edge a tight contest, especially with the Netherlands missing key defenders. However, extra time could be required if the Dutch keep it compact.
π Both Teams to Score: Yes β
Both teams have scored in three of the last four H2H meetings.
π Over/Under 2.5 Goals: Over 2.5 β
All signs point to another open contest after the 2-2 draw.
π Anytime Goalscorer: Γlvaro Morata β
When he scores, Spain tend to win big.
π Half-Time Result: Draw (0-0 or 1-1) β
Cautious approach expected early on.
π Extra Time Winner: Spain β
Spainβs bench options could make the difference late on.
π§€ Simon
π‘οΈ Porro β Le Normand β Huijsen β Cucurella
βοΈ Pedri β Zubimendi β Ruiz
β‘ Lamine Yamal β Morata β Nico Williams
π§€ Verbruggen
π‘οΈ Frimpong β Van Hecke β Van Dijk β Geertruida
βοΈ Reijnders β F. de Jong
β‘ Simons β Kluivert β Gakpo
π― Memphis Depay
π
Match Date: March 23, 2025
π Venue: Mestalla Stadium, Valencia, Spain
β° Kickoff Time: 7:45 PM UK Time
Spain will lean on home dominance, big-match experience, and squad depth to outlast a talented Dutch team. However, the Oranje cannot be underestimated β Cody Gakpo and Memphis Depay can turn any game on its head.
π΄ Final Score Prediction: Spain 2-1 Netherlands (AET)
πͺπΈ Spain progress to the semi-finals!
The content provided in this article is intended solely for informational and entertainment purposes. Betting and gambling involve significant risks, including the potential loss of the principal amount wagered. Readers should be aware of their local regulations and laws concerning online betting and gambling. Always gamble responsibly, knowing that the outcomes are unpredictable and can lead to financial losses.If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, please seek help. Many organizations provide resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. Remember, the best bet is always a well-informed decision.Never gamble with funds that are essential for your daily life, and always set limits to ensure youβre not gambling more than you can afford to lose. The thrill of the bet should never overshadow the potential consequences of loss. Stay safe, informed, and gamble responsibly.