Netherlands and Morocco set for heavyweight clash in the Round of 32

By Karl Matchett

Given how open the other side of the bracket looks, Morocco could perhaps be forgiven for wondering what might have been, after finishing second only on goal difference behind Brazil in the groups.

Saibari and an underrated attack

Obviously stats from the group stage don’t present a level playing field, given the huge variance between strengths and weaknesses in each quartet. All the same, the numbers look compelling when added to Morocco’s overall approach: they have one of the most dynamic sides going forward and look well-balanced without the ball.

In fact, Morocco ranked top ten among the 48 nations for expected goals, xG difference, accurate passes and big chances created (10). Key to much of their good work was Ismael Saibari, who’s move to Bayern Munich should go through this week. He netted three times from ten shots and is the team’s outlet in the channels, one of the chief creators and the first line of defence. Shutting him down will be the responsibility of the many, not the single defender, if Netherlands want to blunt the Africans’ attack.

Can workrate make up for Dutch lacking star quality?

In years gone by it would be Netherlands who were the star attraction for attacking talent, but this group is a little more functional. Brian Brobbey epitomises that, having made a good impact since coming into the XI with his movement, brute force and self-belief – but few would have him at a top table of Europe’s strikers on goal return and technical ability alone.

There will be much expectation on the midfield triumvirate to provide off-the-ball workrate as much as a cutting edge for the Oranje to go much further, with a key mix of running power and quick-footed ability on show between Ryan Gravenberch and Tijjani Reijnders in particular. They must thrive for their attacking teammates to produce the goods.

Recent form 

It was a draw and two wins for the Dutch in the groups, with the thumping of Sweden a highlight. Morocco drew with Brazil then beat two lightweights – not scoring more goals was the only concern they might hold.

Team news

No reported injuries for either team in the buildup, though Cody Gakpo suffered a devastating personal loss at the weekend. He is expected to feature.

Key player

There will be a lot of eyes on youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi’s showing, which means Ryan Gravenberch needs to step up and show both sides of his game – ball-winning and creativity going forward alike. So far he has been fairly poor on the former, but better with the latter. Gravenberch has two assists but his ball-carrying has been hit and miss, completing two of five dribbles – under 50 touches per game shows he must get involved more.

Prediction

This should be a tremendous tussle which could really go either way – but Morocco will have designs on replicating their last World Cup run and could edge it: Netherlands 2-3 Morocco.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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