England, under Gareth Southgate, have emerged as major contenders in international tournaments, with Wednesday’s Euro 2024 semifinal against the Netherlands marking their third appearance in the last four of a major tournament in four attempts.
However, the Three Lions’ road to the semifinals hasn’t been entirely convincing. Their five matches against Serbia, Denmark, Slovenia, Slovakia, and Switzerland have yielded three just draws. Scoring has also been a challenge, with England only managing one goal inside 90 minutes across those matches. England’s lack of attacking cutting-edge is evident in their expected goals (xG) statistic, which stands at 4.3. This is considerably lower than Croatia’s 6.6 and Czechia’s 5.1, even though both teams have played two more matches than England.
Even their quarterfinal clash against Switzerland produced more negative history – no shots on target from either side by halftime – a rarity in Euros history, occurring only for the second time! The statistics paint a grim picture of England’s attacking play, or rather, the lack thereof. This must worry Southgate and his coaching staff as they get set to face the Oranje.
The Netherlands, on the other hand, are in the Euros semis for the first time in two decades and have brought a refreshing attacking flair to the knockout stages, scoring five times in their last two games. However, having reached this stage for the first since 2004, the Oranje might adopt a more pragmatic approach as they seek a first final appearance since 1988.
A cautious approach would not be out of place in a Euros semifinal. Of the last 14 semifinals, nine have produced two or fewer goals, seven have ended in draws after 90 minutes, and four have been goalless.
This match could follow the trend of low-scoring encounters typical of Euros semifinals.
Betting Tip: Under 0.5 Goals at Halftime
10/09 20:00 Netherlands – England Under 0.5 Goals at Halftime @ 2.25 (Betano)
Considering the historical trends of low-scoring semifinals, England’s goalscoring struggles, and the likelihood of the Netherlands adopting a cautious approach, the bet for under 0.5 goals at halftime at 2.25 odds on Betano could hold value.
We are likely to see a cautious start from both sides, focusing on defensive solidity over attacking flair, with chances at a premium.
Netherlands vs England - Under 0.5 Goals at Halftime @ 2.25
Extra bet: Luke Shaw to be booked @ 2.92
Luke Shaw’s 12-minute cameo against Switzerland was his first competitive football action in months after a long injury layoff since February. His potential inclusion in the starting XI for the first time in this competition adds an element of risk. Shaw accumulated seven bookings in just 15 matches for Manchester United last season, indicating a propensity for yellow cards.
Given his limited game time this season and the intensity of a semifinal, Shaw could find himself in challenging defensive situations, increasing the likelihood of a booking.
Luke Shaw to be booked @ 2.92New to Betano? Sign up today and take advantage of their incredible 50% up to ₦200.000 Welcome Bonus offer!
50% Welcome Bonus up to ₦200.000Meanwhile, make sure to take advantage of the best Euro 2024 bonuses and betting offers available from the best betting sites in Nigeria for your Euros betting action.