The UEFA Nations League (UNL) quarter-finals are underway, and one of the most highly anticipated matchups pits the Netherlands against defending champions Spain. The Dutch will have home-field advantage in the first leg, which will take place at Feyenoord’s De Kuip stadium. The Netherlands is seeking to establish a strong foundation in the tie and improve upon their fourth-place finish in 2023 and runner-up medal in 2019.

Ronald Koeman’s team qualified for the quarter-finals by finishing second behind Germany in UNL Group A3, with a record of two wins, three draws, and one loss. However, their defense was a concern, as they conceded seven goals in those six games, the most they’ve allowed during a UNL group stage. The Netherlands will aim to strengthen their defense ahead of this matchup and maintain their impressive recent record against Spain.

In their five head-to-head matchups this century, the Netherlands has conceded just three goals and lost only once, which was in the 2010 World Cup final. Spain, on the other hand, has been one of the top teams in world football, with an impressive record of losing just one of their last 25 internationals. Luis de la Fuente’s team has risen from tenth in FIFA’s world rankings in September 2023 to third, and they’re poised to challenge Argentina for the number one spot.

Spain’s recent success includes their maiden UNL title in 2023 and a fourth European Championship title in 2024. They’ve also won five consecutive UNL matches, scoring at least one goal after the break in each of those games. The Netherlands will need to be at the top of their game to contend with Spain’s potent offense.

The first leg of the quarter-finals will provide an exciting opportunity for the Netherlands to test their mettle against the defending champions. With home-field advantage on their side, the Dutch will aim to establish a strong foundation in the tie and set themselves up for success in the second leg.