Netherlands vs Norway: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups Preview
Quick context
The Netherlands sealed qualification after a draw with Poland, then beat Lithuania 4-0. Ronald Koeman has set high targets, saying a semi-final is the minimum aim.
Koeman’s team went through qualifying unbeaten. They averaged more than three goals per game and conceded just four.
Norway’s run and form
Norway ended a 28-year World Cup absence by dominating Group I last autumn. They won all eight qualifiers and scored 37 goals.
Erling Haaland netted 16 goals in qualifying, equalling the UEFA record. Their streak included an 11-1 win over Moldova and a 5-0 victory against Israel.
Recent form and rankings
Outside of a penalty-shootout defeat to Spain in the Nations League, the Netherlands have not lost in over a year. They also remain unbeaten at home since October 2023.
Norway’s only recent interruption was a friendly draw with New Zealand. The Dutch sit seventh in the FIFA rankings, and Switzerland are 18th, who Norway face next.
Netherlands vs Norway: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups Preview
Filmogaz.com lays out the main team developments and likely selections for the friendly. The match will help both coaches finalise plans for the World Cup.
Team News — Netherlands
- Memphis Depay withdrew with a thigh injury after being named first-choice striker.
- Crysencio Summerville pulled out before a planned debut.
- Robin Roefs, Matthijs de Ligt, Jurrien Timber, Noa Lang and Frenkie de Jong are unavailable.
- Jan Paul van Hecke returns from suspension.
- AZ midfielder Kees Smit earned his first senior call-up.
- With Depay absent, Brian Brobbey, Wout Weghorst and Donyell Malen vie to lead the attack.
Team News — Norway
- Erling Haaland will be rested for the Amsterdam game.
- Captain Martin Ødegaard remains sidelined through injury.
- Thelo Aasgaard was omitted from the travelling squad.
- Jens Petter Hauge is back in contention following strong club form.
- Jørgen Strand Larsen and Alexander Sørloth are expected to lead the forward line.
Possible starting lineups
| Netherlands (possible) | Norway (possible) |
|---|---|
| Verbruggen | Nyland |
| Dumfries, Van Dijk, Van de Ven, Ake | Ryerson, Østigård, Ajer, Bjørkan |
| Gravenberch, Schouten | Bobb, Berg, Berge, Hauge |
| Simons, Reijnders, Gakpo | Strand Larsen, Sørloth |
| Malen (central striker) | (Forwards as listed) |
Match outlook and prediction
Both teams have strong attacking options and plenty of depth. Selection battles increase the match’s importance for managers.
Filmogaz.com predicts an entertaining draw. Final score forecast: 2-2. The friendly should provide useful clues ahead of the finals.
