Netherlands vs Wales

The Netherlands will be looking to preserve the top spot in UEFA Nations League Group A4 when they take on Wales at De Kuip.

Halfway through Group A4, the Netherlands find themselves top of the standings following a three-game unbeaten start to the new Nations League campaign (W2, D1). After back-to-back wins over Belgium and Wales, the high-flying Dutch side had to come from a 2-0 down to hold Poland to an enthralling 2-2 home draw last time out. High scoring has been a common theme in the Netherlands’ Nations League fixtures this term, as all three have seen over 2.5 goals and both teams on the scoresheet. Louis van Gaal’s men have now lost just one of their last nine Nations League group stage outings (W5, D3). Moreover, they are unbeaten in 12 internationals since Van Gaal’s arrival at the helm (W8, D4), their best such streak since a run of 17 between 2012 and 2013.

In the meantime, Wales salvaged a late point against Belgium last time out (1-1). Yet after losing their opening two Group A4 fixtures, each by the same 2-1 scoreline, the relegation prospect is looming. But the ‘Dragons’ could not care less about their uneventful Nations League campaign after qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 1958 earlier this month. Though the abovementioned stalemate against Belgium suggests the hangover is subsiding, another defeat here could send Wales to League B. But Rob Page’s men can draw confidence from keeping four consecutive away clean sheets in the Nations League before losing to Poland on their most recent travel.