England and the Netherlands are two of the four teams left standing in this summer’s UEFA European Under-21 Championship.
Lee Carsley’s Young Lions are the reigning champions and will fancy their chances of retaining the crown.
But the Dutch are a talented outfit too and lest we forget, they won the tournament in both 2006 and 2007.
Below is an online sports betting preview for the intriguing semi-final clash in Bratislava, complete with some betting tips and odds for your bets on football.
England vs Netherlands Preview
Things looked a little bleak for the English after the group stage.
Carsley’s men lost 2-1 to Germany on Matchday 3 and drew 0-0 with Slovenia in the previous game, so the pressure really was on in the quarter-finals.
But the Young Lions rallied to defeat a brilliant Spain side 3-1 thanks to goals from James McAtee, Harvey Elliot and Elliot Anderson.
Any hint of negativity in the camp has surely now evaporated, though England will know not to underestimate the Dutch.
The Netherlands beat Ukraine 1-0 on Matchday 3 to book a spot in the quarters, in which they defeated a spirited Portugal side 1-0 thanks to a late goal from AZ Alkmaar forward Ernest Poku.
What made that result even more impressive is that Ruben van Bommel was shown a red card in the 21st minute, but the Dutch defied all the odds to claim a priceless win.
Van Bommel’s absence will be felt against an England side littered with Premier League stars, however, the Netherlands’ grit and determination should make this a tense and entertaining semi-final clash.
England vs Netherlands Odds
*All odds are subject to change
England’s young guns are the favourites to win this semi-final contest at a price of 2.11. The Netherlands are priced at 3.27, while the draw after 90 minutes is at odds of 3.45.
England vs Netherlands Betting Tips
James McAtee to score anytime @ 3.36
McAtee is arguably far too good to be playing at this level, but the Manchester City ace’s presence is part of the reason why England are now the favourites to win the tournament. McAtee scored in the quarters against Spain – and we are backing him to make it two goals in two knockout matches.
Ethan Nwaneri to score or assist @ 2.25
Nwaneri is yet to really light up this tournament, but no one can question his talent. The Arsenal teenager enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2024-25 with nine goals and two assists across all competitions – and it feels only a matter of time before he delivers another special performance on the international stage. Could tonight be the night?
England U21s to win and both teams to score @ 3.72
But while we are tipping England to win and a few players to be involved in the goals, we would be slightly shocked if the Netherlands did not put the ball past goalkeeper James Beadle. The Young Lions have kept just one clean sheet in four matches thus far.
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