Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the UEFA Nations League match.
At Euro 2024, Hungary failed to progress beyond the group stage and consequently faced relegation from the top tier. Last month, they suffered a crushing blow against Germany (0:5), while the Netherlands made a confident entry into the Nations League, with expectations of victory in Budapest.
Hungary
In contrast to their less harrowing defeat to Germany at Euro 2024 (0:2), the difference in class was glaring this time. Hungary managed just 0.49 xG and one shot on target in response to Germany’s 4.25 xGA over 90 minutes. At home against Bosnia and Herzegovina (0:0), they deserved to win (0.92 xG vs 0.18 xG), but the underdogs effectively shut down their attacks—Dominik Szoboszlai is in need of a reliable partner to finish chances.
Netherlands
In July, the Netherlands almost reached the Euro 2024 final, losing to England in the semi-finals (1:2). During the latest international break, the team scored seven goals in matches against Bosnia and Herzegovina (5:2) and Germany (2:2). The Dutch side seems increasingly reliant on the talents of Cody Gakpo and Xavi Simons, who have become key components of their attack, while Ryan Gravenberch adds versatility to the midfield.
Hungary vs Netherlands Prediction
During the 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign, Hungary suffered heavy defeats to the Netherlands (1:4 and 1:8) and since then, the gap in class has only slightly narrowed. The support in Budapest will rally their favourites, but they are unlikely to secure any points.
