“This is going to be close” - Chris Sutton predicts Netherlands vs Turkiye, criticizes Memphis Depay’s struggles in front of goal
BBC Sport columnist Chris Sutton has predicted the Netherlands to overcome Turkiye 2-1 in their Euro 2024 quarter-final fixture at the Olympiastadion (Saturday, July 6). He also criticized former Atletico Madrid forward Memphis Depay for his poor conversion rate in the tournament.
The Oranje were fortunate to qualify for the Round of 16 after finishing third in Group D with four points, behind Austria and France. However, they looked much more composed in the next round, dominantly defeating Romania 3-0.
While the likes of Cody Gakpo and Xavi Simons have flourished, Depay has struggled to convert most of his big chances. He has scored just one goal from four starts at Euro 2024. Despite this, the 30-year-old has maintained his high work-rate, helping his nation reach the final eight. He also has a good record for the Netherlands, scoring 46 goals and providing 31 assists in 96 appearances across all competitions.
In contrast, Turkiye finished second in Group F with six points, behind Portugal on goal difference. They then defeated Austria 2-1 in the Round of 16 to make the next round. This will be both side's 15th encounter, with the Dutch winning six games, four draws, and Turkiye winning four times.
Sutton made his prediction (as per METRO):
"I loved the way Turkey fought to get over the line against Austria - and they did it without their captain, Hakan Calhanoglu, who was suspended for that game but will be back for this one. Mert Gunok's incredible save in stoppage time was something people will talk about for years and I guess he will now be known as the 'Turkish Gordon Banks'."
He added:
"There were many reasons why I expected Austria to win that tie, but Turkey were much better organised defensively than I thought they would be, so credit to their manager, Vincenzo Montella. They always carried a threat on the counter too."
"The only problem is they all gave so much in that game. Turkey will need to do it all again to get past the Netherlands, and that is such a big ask. The 'Oranje Army' have been amazing too, so the atmosphere at the Olympiastadion is going to be incredible."
He continued:
"I am still not fully convinced by the Netherlands team. They beat Romania easily enough last time out, but we don't really know how good Romania are. The Netherlands have to be favourites here, though. With players like Nathan Ake and Virgil van Dijk at the back and Cody Gakpo and Xavi Simons going forward, they have quality all over the pitch."
He also took aim at Memphis Depay, saying:
"Memphis Depay misses so many chances that he reminds me of me when I was playing for Chelsea, but his movement is excellent and he does a lot of good work for the team. This is going to be close but, rather than predicting Turkish delight, it will be a case of a double Dutch strike sending them through."
Sutton's Prediction: 2-1
Darren Bent names his Euro 2024 Player of the Tournament so far; chooses Germany star over Netherlands' Cody Gakpo
Former Aston Villa forward Darren Bent has chosen Germany's Jamal Musiala as his Euro 2024 Player of the Tournament so far. Despite this, he reserved praise for Netherlands winger Cody Gakpo for his performances as well.
Following his heroics at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Gakpo has shined on the international stage once again, guiding the Netherlands to the Euro 2024 quarter-finals. The Liverpool star has scored three goals and provided one assist in four games, putting him joint-top of the Golden Boot race.
Bent said (via HITC):
“So, my player of the tournament so far, I have gone for Jamal Musiala for Germany. I think he has been absolutely incredible. He has got a couple of goals as well. Just real quality. He has three goals in the tournament so far."
“Every single time he seems to get on the ball, it just gives everyone in that German team a lift. He can go past people. He can create. He’s quick and direct. I was going to go Cody Gakpo, who is having a really good tournament, but I am going to go for Jamal Musiala.”
Musiala has arguably been Germany's best player this summer and has scored three goals in his four games, just like Gakpo. The former is also set to play in the quarter-finals against Spain on Friday, July 5.