Netherlands take on the visitors Finland in a World Cup 2026 qualification match. The match will be played on Sunday, October 12th at Johan Cruijff Arena (Amsterdam).
The Netherlands are clearly determined to qualify early. “The Oranje” still remember the difficult period not so long ago when they even missed out on major tournaments. But now the team is once again among Europe’s elite. Under Van Gaal, they performed admirably at the last World Cup — losing only on penalties to the eventual champions, Argentina. At Euro 2024, they reached the semifinals, confirming their return to the top level. In the Nations League earlier this year, they were eliminated by Spain in the playoff round after two high-scoring draws and another penalty shootout. In qualification, results have been solid overall: after a pair of convincing wins in June, they were less consistent — drawing 1-1 with Poland and narrowly defeating group outsider Lithuania 3-2. Most recently, on their trip to Malta, they cruised to a comfortable 4-0 victory. The Netherlands have looked sharp offensively, with Cody Gakpo and Xavi Simons in fine form, while the defensive structure under Ronald Koeman remains disciplined. The team’s balance and depth suggest they can secure qualification with matches to spare if they maintain this level.
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Finland spent years under the same manager, Kanerva, who guided the former minnows to Euro 2020. But after that peak, their progress faded — last autumn they lost all six Nations League games, not only to England but also to Greece and even Ireland. The appointment of Friis has brought mixed results: there were moments of promise, including a 2-1 win over Poland, but consistency remains elusive. Around half of their matches still end in defeat, and they’ve even dropped points against one of the group’s weakest sides, Lithuania. In their most recent outing, Finland managed to beat the Baltic visitors 2-1 at home, earning a much-needed three points, though the performance again left questions. The Finns rely heavily on Teemu Pukki’s experience and Glen Kamara’s creativity in midfield, but defensively they remain vulnerable under pressure. Unless they find more stability, it will be difficult to compete with Europe’s stronger nations.
The two nations first met at the 1912 Olympics. In total, they’ve faced each other 12 times, with the Dutch winning all but one, which ended in a draw. “The Oranje” are far stronger and should record a convincing home win against such opposition. The bet is on the hosts to cover the “-2.5 goals” handicap.
Prediction for the match: Netherlands to win with -2.5 handicap.
