Netherlands vs Qatar, FIFA World Cup 2022, Today Match Prediction

Netherlands vs Qatar Match Prediction & Analysis

The Netherlands can achieve the initial aim they will have set out at the start of the World Cup, by qualifying for the knockout stages at the top of Group A.

It has not been an easy ride for Louis van Gaal’s men. Despite the luxury of quality among their squad, they laboured to victory over a solid Senegal side before only managing a draw against Ecuador.

However, with their final group game presenting arguably their easiest challenge, they know that three points and a healthy scoreline will see them roll into the next round without losing a game.

For Qatar, there is inevitably some disappointment when the host crashes out early. Despite having very low expectations of Qatar coming into the World Cup, they have arguably been worse.

Now, they can try and restore some of their pride by turning in a good performance against the Netherlands – they have nothing more to lose, after all. 

TEAMS PREVIEW

Netherlands Preview

FIFA Ranking: 8

Predicted Finish: Quarter Finals

Reasons to be cheerful:

     A win should see them top the group

     They have a real gem in Cody Gakpo and Depay is nearing full fitness

Reasons to be fearful:

     There is little fluidity about this team at times

     One or two players appear short of required quality

We must take the Netherlands’ performances in the group stage of this World Cup with a pinch of salt, as no team can win the competition in the first round.

There is plenty of time for Louis van Gaal’s men to pick themselves up and play like a great team rather than a collection of individuals. That said, there is a lack of fluidity about this Dutch side right now.

In Cody Gakpo, they have one of Europe’s finest prospects, one who will court attention from many of the continent’s top clubs in the January transfer window. Memphis Depay is getting nearer to full fitness.

However, there are one or two positions where you’d question whether the player is good enough to win the World Cup for the Dutch. The goalkeeper, wing backs and strikers (namely Bergwijn and Klaassen come to mind).

A strong win here will tick off that first objective, however.

Star Man – Cody Gakpo

Cody Gakpo now has as many World Cup goals as Ronaldinho, Patrick Kluivert and is only one behind Dutch legend Johan Cruyff. He is becoming central to his nation’s hopes.

Qatar Preview

FIFA Ranking: 50

Predicted Finish: Group Stage

Reasons to be cheerful

     Having nothing to lose by giving it a go here

     Could upset Netherland’s rhythm with a high press

Reasons to be fearful

     Have conceded five goals already and this is their toughest test

     Could become first hosts to lose opening three games

There is nothing left for Qatar at their own World Cup now, only the pride that they can restore by going out on a high against the Netherlands. 

To lose their first two group games may not have come as much of a surprise, but it is certainly a damning reflection on this nation and calls into question why it was awarded the World Cup in the first place.

Their hopes of a comeback against Senegal were dashed when the African nation took a 3-1 lead and their complete lack of experience at this level showed.

They qualified automatically for this World Cup as a result of being its hosts, although wonder whether Qatar will qualify for another, given the lack of quality on show. 

It appears unlikely, although the experience of being involved in this tournament may spur them on.

Star Man – Mohammed Muntari

Muntari has the honour of being the only Qatar international to score at a World Cup. Can he help his nation go out on a high here?