The Netherlands and Poland are set to face off in a crucial World Cup 2026 qualifier. The Netherlands are in good form, while Poland are under a new coach. Memphis Depay is on the verge of becoming the Netherlands’ all-time leading scorer. The Netherlands are expected to win, with Depay likely to score.
De Kuip in Rotterdam is set to host a thrilling Group G encounter this Thursday as the Netherlands and Poland clash in a crucial UEFA World Cup 2026 qualifying match. Both teams are currently tied on six points, but the Dutch hold a slight advantage with a game in hand as Poland embarks on a new chapter under a new coach.
The Netherlands showcased their attacking prowess in their previous World Cup 2026 qualifier, dismantling Malta 8-0 in a dominant performance. Memphis Depay and Donyell Malen each scored twice, while Micky van de Ven, Xavi Simons, Virgil van Dijk, and Noa Lang also found the net, contributing to the emphatic victory.
These back-to-back wins have revitalized the Netherlands, providing a much-needed boost after their UEFA Nations League exit to Spain on penalties. The team's renewed momentum is evident, and they remain unbeaten in World Cup qualification since March 2021, giving them a solid foundation for their 2026 World Cup campaign.
However, the Oranje will be without Jeremie Frimpong due to a hamstring injury. All eyes will be on Memphis Depay, who is on the verge of becoming the Netherlands' all-time leading scorer. He is currently level with Robin van Persie on 50 goals and needs just one more to surpass him, although he still trails Vivianne Miedema's impressive 100 goals for the women's team.
Depay is expected to lead the attack, supported by Cody Gakpo. Ryan Gravenberch could feature in midfield alongside Frenkie de Jong and Tijjani Reijnders, forming a strong and balanced core for the team.
Poland's World Cup qualifying campaign suffered a setback in June when they were defeated by Finland, the current group leaders. Despite earlier victories against Lithuania and Malta, as well as a friendly win against Moldova, Poland fell 2-1 to Finland, resulting in the end of Michal Probierz's tenure as head coach. Jan Urban, a former international player and assistant coach, has taken over the reins.
Urban's first move was to reconcile with Robert Lewandowski, who had distanced himself from the squad. Lewandowski has been reinstated as captain and will lead Poland in their upcoming match against the Netherlands, a team they haven't defeated since 1979.
Lewandowski's fitness is a concern due to a recent muscular problem, but Urban has alternative options in Karol Swiderski, Adam Buksa, and Krzysztof Piatek. While Probierz often employed a 3-5-2 formation, Urban's preferred 4-3-3 or 4-4-2 could signal a tactical shift for Poland.
As Poland seeks to impress their new coach, they face a daunting challenge against a motivated Netherlands side. While Poland might score, the Netherlands are expected to secure a comfortable victory, with Depay eager to add to his goal tally and make history.
Prediction: Memphis Depay to score
Best odds: 11/10
Bookmaker: 888sport