Poland vs Netherlands: Three key battles that could decide Euro 2024 clash

Robert Lewandowski will miss the marquee match.

Poland and the Netherlands kick off their Euro 2024 campaigns on Sunday in a mouthwatering Group D clash at the Volksparkstadion in Hamburg. While the free-scoring Dutch are favourites, an injury-hit Poland will be no pushovers as they look to lay down an early marker.

Ronald Koeman’s side are highly fancied to top the group. In contrast, Poland’s chances take a major hit without talisman Robert Lewandowski, who suffered an untimely injury in their final warm-up match against Turkey.

The Barcelona striker has scored four of Poland’s last five goals at the European Championships. His absence robs them of their most potent attacking threat against a talented but depleted Netherlands defence also missing Jurrien Timber and Frenkie de Jong.

With goals likely at both ends, this Group D opener has all the makings of an eye-catching contest. Two contrasting styles will clash as the free-scoring Dutch take on a Poland side always defensively sturdy even when weakened by key absentees. The outcome could hinge on these three compelling individual duels across the pitch.

Three key battles that may decide Poland vs Netherlands Euro 2024 clash

3. Adam Buksa vs Virgil van Dijk

With talisman Robert Lewandowski ruled out through injury, the goal-scoring burden will fall on the broad shoulders of Adam Buksa. The towering 27-year-old Antalyaspor forward has been in fine form this season, netting 16 goals in Super Lig.

Buksa will likely lead the Polish attack as they look to cause problems with their direct, physical approach. His battle with Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk will be one to watch. The Liverpool colossus is one of the world’s elite defenders and will relish the physical and aerial test Buksa poses.

Van Dijk has been a model of consistency at the back for the Dutch. If he can subdue the muscular Buksa, it will go a long way to securing a crucial opening win for the Oranje.

Also read: UEFA Euro 2024 Group D: Preview, players to watch, fixtures, squads & telecast info

2. Piotr Zielinski vs Jerdy Schouten

With Frenkie de Jong and Teun Koopmeiners both ruled out through injury, Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman has a hole to fill in his midfield. The likeliest candidate is PSV’s Jerdy Schouten.

Whichever player gets the nod, will have to contend with Piotr Zielinski’s craft and guile. The Napoli playmaker is Poland‘s creative fulcrum, capable of unlocking defences with his vision and passing range.

Zielinski’s ability to drift into pockets of space and dictate the tempo could cause big problems for the Dutch if their midfield lacks the quality and control of the absent De Jong. His battle against Schouten could decide where the decisive battles are fought.

1. Denzel Dumfries vs Nicola Zalewski

Two of the most attacking full-backs at the tournament will go head-to-head on the flanks. Denzel Dumfries had a decent season for Inter Milan, contributing four goals and five assists from the right wing-back.

The marauding Dutchman will likely be his side’s main outball and creative force from wide areas. His battle with Poland’s highly-rated left-back Nicola Zalewski will be fascinating.

The 22-year-old Roma defender enjoyed a good season in Serie A and will relish the chance to test himself against Dumfries’ power, directness and quality delivery. If Zalewski can neutralize the Dutch dangerman, it will greatly aid Poland’s hopes of keeping a solid defensive shape.

With goals likely at both ends, the outcome of this battle out wide could have a major bearing on the final result as both teams look to stretch the play and exploit the flanks.

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