The Netherlands and Norway face off in an international friendly on Friday, as both teams continue their preparations ahead of this year’s World Cup.
Ronald Koeman’s side enjoyed a dominant World Cup qualifying campaign, going unbeaten, scoring more than three goals per game on average and letting in only four. Their spot at the tournament was sealed with a 4-0 victory over Lithuania in November.
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Netherlands news
The Netherlands have been hit by several injury issues in this international break. Memphis Depay is the latest to withdraw after suffering a thigh problem. Koeman previously confirmed Depay as his first-choice striker, which now forces the coach to adjust his attacking setup for the meeting with Norway.
There are further absentees too, with Crysencio Summerville – who had been in line for his first cap – also sidelined. Robin Roefs, Matthijs de Ligt, Jurrien Timber, Noa Lang and Frenkie de Jong are also out.
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There is some good news for the Dutch. Jan Paul van Hecke is back from an international suspension and is expected to slot into the starting lineup. In midfield, highly rated AZ Alkmaar youngster Kees Smit has received his first call-up to the senior squad and will be hoping to impress Koeman.
Depay’s injury creates an opening up front, giving in-form Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey a real chance to feature after he grabbed a late winner in the Tyne-Wear derby against Newcastle United last weekend. Even so, Donyell Malen could still be preferred from the start if Koeman opts for a different balance in his forward line.
Netherlands predicted lineup
Possible Netherlands starting XI: Verbruggen; Dumfries, Van Dijk, Van de Ven, Ake; Gravenberch, Schouten; Reijnders, Gakpo; Malen, Brobbey
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When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 7:45pm BST on Friday, 27th March.
How to watch Netherlands vs Norway?
For fans watching in the UK, the match will be available to stream via Amazon Prime Video on a pay-per-view basis.
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