Netherlands vs USA: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head

This is the first Round of 16 fixture of the FIFA World Cup 2022

It has been a feverish World Cup since matchday one, but as we move onto the knockouts, the drama level is going to soar. Netherlands will face off against the United States in the first round of 16 clash. Both teams have been undefeated so far so this matchup is the perfect one to kick off the knockouts.

Netherlands advanced to the knockout stages after defeating Qatar and Senegal. Pulisic and his team will need to be on the lookout to find space between their defence. They look really compact and their defence organisation is really tough to crack. USA have already shown their mettle against England and will hope to continue their good run against Netherlands.

Kick off: 8:30pm (IST), 15:00 (GMT)

Netherlands form (all comps): W-W-W-D-W

USA form (all comps): L-D-D-D-W

Players to Watch

Christian Pulisic 

Christian Pulisic has been man on the mission so far in the tournament. The Chelsea star scored the winning goal against Iran in the last game to help USA escape past the group stage. Against a tougher opponent like Netherlands, Pulisic is going to be the key player for the USA and their biggest hope.

Frenkie de Jong 

Cody Gakpo has been the star man for Dutch team so far in the tournament. However, it has been Frenkie de Jong who has been the real unsung hero of Netherlands' success. He has been brilliant in midfield and helps them to control the game from the back.

Team News

Jeremie Firmpong is doubtful for the clash after picking up an injury on Wednesday. 

USA are likely to be without Josh Sergent who is reportedly injured but most importantly, Christian Pulisic is certain to start

Predicted lineup

Netherlands predicted lineup (3-4-1-2)

Noppert, Timber, Van Dijk, Ake; Dumfries, De Roon, F. De Jong, Blind, Klaassen, Gakpo, Depay

USA predicted lineup (4-3-3)

Turner, Dest, Carter-Vickers, Ream, Robinson, McKennie, Adams, Musah, Weah, Sargent, Pulisic

Head to Head stats

Netherlands dominate the head to head record. Both sides have met five times, and Netherlands have won four times

Played – 5

Netherlands - 4

Drawn – 0

USA – 1

Netherlands vs USA Prediction

Netherlands are having a really good campaign so far and are really strong going this round of 16 clash. Although, you can't rule out USA but Netherlands are favorites to win

Prediction: Netherlands 2-1 USA