The Euro 2020 round of 16 has delivered some excellent games so far, with Denmark comfortably defeating Wales, and Italy struggling to advance past Austria. However, arguably the biggest shock came in this game, with a resurgent Netherlands side facing a Czech Republic team with little pressure on them. This tactical analysis will look at how the Netherlands’ attack changed for the worse as the game progressed, as well as the Czech Republic’s wing play and second half tactics, looking to control the game and put pressure on their opponents after half-time.
Lineups
The Netherlands made just one change from their final group game win against North Macedonia, with Ryan Gravenberch being replaced by former Middlesbrough midfielder Marten de Roon, who partnered Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong in the centre of the field. Wolfsburg striker Wout Weghorst was again on the bench, with Liverpool-linked Donyell Malen again playing alongside former Manchester United forward Memphis Depay in attack, whilst captain Georginio Wijnaldum once again started in the attacking midfield role behind them.
The Czech Republic made three changes of their own from the 1-0 defeat to England. Left-back Jan Boril was suspended for this game, so Hoffenheim’s Pavel Kaderabek came in to take his place. Captain Vladimir Darida and fellow midfielder Jakub Jankto moved to the bench, with Antonin Barak and Petr Sevcik replacing them. Striker Patrik Schick, who scored three times in the group stages, again led the line, whilst West Ham United right-back Vladimir Coufal and midfielder Tomas Soucek were also in the starting XI.
