On a crisp night at the Philips Stadion in Eindhoven, the Netherlands delivered a stunning performance in their League A Group A3 match, overpowering Bosnia and Herzegovina 5-2. The Dutch side, led by Ronald Koeman, dominated possession, dictated the tempo, and produced an attacking masterclass to secure an emphatic victory. This victory further solidified their place in the competition, with key performances from Joshua Zirkzee, Cody Gakpo, and Xavi Simons.
Netherlands vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Head-to-Head Record
Historically, the Netherlands had a slight edge over Bosnia and Herzegovina, having won two out of their previous three encounters. Bosnia had yet to record a win against the Dutch, and this match extended that streak. The Netherlands came into this fixture in better form, looking to build momentum after a series of inconsistent performances.
Netherlands vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Lineups
Here is the Netherlands vs Herzegovina lineups today (Sep 8, 2024)
Netherlands Starting XI:
- Coach: Ronald Koeman
- Goalkeeper: Verbruggen
- Defenders: Van Dijk (C), Aké, De Ligt, Dumfries
- Midfielders: Schouten, Gravenberch, Reijnders, Simons
- Forwards: Zirkzee, Gakpo
Bosnia and Herzegovina Starting XI:
- Coach: Sergej Barbarez
- Goalkeeper: Vasilj
- Defenders: Mujakić, Gazibegović, Barišić, Dedić
- Midfielders: B. Tahirović, Gigovic, Huseinbašić, Demirović
- Forwards: Džeko (C), Katić
Netherlands vs Bosnia and Herzegovina First Half
The match began with the Netherlands asserting dominance, controlling possession and putting pressure on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s defense. Joshua Zirkzee opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a clinical finish, setting the tone for the Dutch attack. The visitors tried to respond and found their equalizer through Ermedin Demirović in the 27th minute, taking advantage of a defensive lapse by the Netherlands.
However, the Netherlands regained control of the game just before halftime when Tijjani Reijnders scored a crucial goal in the 45+2 minute to give the Dutch a 2-1 lead at the break. The midfielder’s strike came after sustained pressure and was a morale booster for the hosts.
Netherlands vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Half-Time Score: Netherlands 2-1 Bosnia and Herzegovina
Netherlands vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Second Half: Dutch Dominance and Goals Galore
The second half saw the Netherlands continue to impose their will on Bosnia. Cody Gakpo made it 3-1 in the 56th minute with a beautiful finish after some slick interplay in the final third. Bosnia made several substitutions to try and alter the game, but the Dutch defense, led by captain Virgil van Dijk, stood firm.
As Bosnia began to tire, the Dutch took advantage. Wout Weghorst, who came on as a substitute for Zirkzee in the 74th minute, extended the lead to 4-2 in the 88th minute with a composed finish. Just when Bosnia thought the scoring was over, Xavi Simons added a fifth in the 90+2 minute, wrapping up the match in style.
Netherlands vs Herzegovina Full-Time Score: Netherlands 5-2 Bosnia and Herzegovina
Netherlands vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Stats
- Possession: Netherlands 71% – Bosnia 29%
- Total Attempts: Netherlands 28 – Bosnia 4
- Passing Accuracy: Netherlands 92% – Bosnia 73%
- Corners: Netherlands 10 – Bosnia 1
- Fouls Committed: Netherlands 10 – Bosnia 15
Netherlands vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Timeline
- 13′ – Goal: Joshua Zirkzee opens the scoring for the Netherlands with a calm finish. (Netherlands 1-0 Bosnia)
- 27′ – Goal: Ermedin Demirović levels the score for Bosnia, exploiting a defensive lapse. (Netherlands 1-1 Bosnia)
- 45+2′ – Goal: Tijjani Reijnders restores the Dutch lead just before the break with a well-taken shot. (Netherlands 2-1 Bosnia)
- 56′ – Goal: Cody Gakpo extends the Netherlands’ lead after a brilliant attacking move. (Netherlands 3-1 Bosnia)
- 74′ – Substitution: Wout Weghorst replaces Joshua Zirkzee.
- 76′ – Goal: Demirović adds his second of the game for Bosnia. (Netherlands 3-2 Bosnia)
- 88′ – Goal: Wout Weghorst scores the Netherlands’ fourth after a clever run. (Netherlands 4-2 Bosnia)
- 90+2′ – Goal: Xavi Simons wraps up the victory with a well-placed strike in stoppage time. (Netherlands 5-2 Bosnia)
Netherlands vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Fouls and Discipline
- Bosnia and Herzegovina’s defensive struggles were compounded by their two yellow cards, both issued in the 86th minute to Gazibegović for dissent.
- Despite the physical nature of the game, the Netherlands kept their discipline and committed fewer fouls.
Netherlands vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Impact on the Points Table
The win gave the Netherlands a vital three points, pushing them further up the Group A3 standings. This victory also provided a significant goal difference boost, which could be crucial in the later stages of the competition. Bosnia and Herzegovina, on the other hand, remained rooted at the bottom of the table, unable to mount a consistent challenge in the tournament.
Netherlands vs Bosnia and Herzegovina Man of the Match
Xavi Simons – The young midfielder was instrumental in the Dutch victory, providing energy and creativity in the middle of the park. His late goal capped off a brilliant performance, where he showcased his playmaking abilities and intelligent movement.
The Netherlands’ emphatic 5-2 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina at the Philips Stadion showcased their attacking prowess and tactical discipline under Ronald Koeman. With key players like Zirkzee, Gakpo, and Simons firing on all cylinders, the Dutch look poised for a deep run in the competition. For Bosnia and Herzegovina, this defeat highlighted defensive frailties and a lack of creativity in the midfield, leaving them with much to ponder as the tournament progresses.
