Tom Middler’s Netherlands v Austria preview: Austria will need to be clinical to get anything in Amsterdam

Our Matchday Squad journalist will be covering Austria throughout Euro 2020

Austria lifted a huge weight from their shoulders by recording a first ever Euros win on matchday one, and with three goals in the bag already, a welcome bit of confidence is beginning to creep back into the side.

That opening victory will allow Das Nationalteam to enjoy this next challenge with a great deal less pressure, and perhaps they can take advantage of the 180 degree switch to the underdog role in Amsterdam on Thursday.

Coach Franco Foda shocked the nation by deploying a back three against North Macedonia, and the big David Alaba question was answered with a commanding man of the match performance from the man at the centre of that defensive trio. Both Alaba and Marcel Sabitzer provided sumptuous passes to register assists in Bucharest, and a late Marko Arnautovic goal means that several key players can feel very satisfied with Sunday’s work, yet Austria will still need to step up a few levels if they’re to challenge the Netherlands.

Expect a back three to be flanked by energetic wing-backs again, as Austria look to pass quickly forward and open up shooting or crossing chances without holding too much possession. Making the most of one or two opportunities will be vital if they’re to come away with something from this one. I am predicting this to finish Netherlands 2-1 Austria.

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