Time & Venue
- Time: 19:45 GMT, November 19
- Venue: Stadion Bilino Polje
Form
Bosnia-Herzegovina
Bosnia-Herzegovina is enduring the worst period in its football history. They recently suffered a record-breaking 0-7 defeat against Germany, marking their heaviest loss ever. With 16 goals conceded in 5 matches, Sergej Barbarez’s team currently has the worst defense in the UEFA Nations League.
Over their last 11 games, Bosnia has 10 losses and only 1 draw, including a 2-5 defeat to the Netherlands in September. Their pattern of promotion and immediate relegation continues as they are already confirmed to drop back to League B.
Netherlands
The Netherlands ended a three-game winless streak with a 4-0 victory over Hungary, securing a spot in the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals. However, their away form remains a concern, as they are yet to win an away match in this campaign.
Squad Updates
Bosnia-Herzegovina
Bosnia welcomes back center-back Nikola Katic from suspension, but Jusuf Gazibegovic and Nihad Mujakic remain sidelined with injuries. Despite having no objectives left in the group stage, coach Sergej Barbarez is likely to field a strong lineup featuring Edin Dzeko, who was rested in the previous match.
Netherlands
For the Netherlands, coach Ronald Koeman has allowed Virgil van Dijk and Frenkie de Jong to return to their clubs to preserve fitness. Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch may also be rested, making way for players like Matthijs de Ligt, Jeremie Frimpong, and Xavi Simons. Mark Flekken is expected to replace Bart Verbruggen in goal.
Predicted Lineups
Bosnia-Herzegovina: Vasilj; Dedic, Katic, Bicakcic, Barisic, Burnic; Tahirovic, Huseinbasic; Hajradinovic; Dzeko, Demirovic.
Netherlands: Flekken; Rensch, De Ligt, De Vrij, Hato; Wieffer, Timber; Frimpong, Koopmeiners, Lang; Brobbey.
Goal & Conceding Rates
Prediction
Bosnia faces a monumental challenge after the psychological blow of their loss to Germany. Their porous defense and diminished morale make it unlikely for them to withstand the Netherlands, even with the visitors making significant squad rotations.
The Netherlands, while not in their best away form, possesses enough squad depth to dominate the weakest team in the group. With the aim of finishing the group stage on a high note, “The Oranje” is expected to secure a comprehensive win.
Predicted Score (per Sportsmole): Bosnia-Herzegovina 0-4 Netherlands