The Netherlands’ year-long unbeaten streak finally came to an end. It was Italy who beat them 0–1 in the UEFA Nations League last Monday. The streak — began with a convincing 4-2 win against Germany — was broken by Nicolò Barella’s sole goal just seconds before referee Dr. Felix Brych blew the half-time whistle.
Oppositely, this away win prolonged Gli Azzurri’s positive records against Oranje. The last time Italy lost to the Netherlands was back in the Euro 2008; 12 years ago. So, how did Roberto Mancini’s men prevail against the home side? This tactical analysis will inform you about that.
Lineups
Caretaker manager Dwight Lodeweges chose 4–2–3–1 for this game. This structure, however, wasnt rigid. It could often shift to a 4-1-4-1 especially when they didnt have the ball. The backline consisted of Hans Hateboer, Joël Veltman, Premier League winner Virgil van Dijk, and Manchester City’s latest signing Nathan Aké. Up top, Memphis Depay was supported by Georginio Wijnaldum and Quincy Promes in the flanks, as well as Manchester United’s newest recruit Donny van de Beek behind him. Their bench was filled with names like Steven Bergwijn, Luuk de Jong, and Denzel Dumfries.
In the opposite side, Mancini opted for 4–3–3. Chelsea player Jorginho was chosen as the midfield general, with the duo of Barella and Manuel Locatelli next to him. Italy’s frontline was filled by the trio of Nicolò Zaniolo, Ciro Immobile, and Lorenzo Insigne. In the dugout, players like Bryan Cristante, Federico Chiesa, and Moise Kean had to start the game as substitutes.
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