Euro 2024: Netherlands vs France tips and predictions - Olivier Giroud to fill Kylian Mbappe’s shoes

When the Euro 2024 draw was initially made, you can bet your bottom dollar that fans all over the continent highlighted this fixture on their wall charts.

France have performed well in this fixture over the past few years, winning seven of the last eight encounters.

The two nations shared the same group in European Championship qualifiers, with France winning both games - 4-0 in Paris and 2-1 away in Amsterdam.

Didier Deschamps’ side may have a good record, but they will be missing a key man for Friday’s encounter.

Kylian Mbappe suffered a broken nose in Monday’s clash with Austria and doubt continues to surround his further participation at the Euros.

 

Euro 2024 offer: Bet £10 pre-match, Get a £5 free bet if both teams score 1st half

 

While Mbappe is likely to return at some point with a protective mask, he certainly won’t play a part on Friday night which will be a massive relief for the Dutch.

Ronald Koeman’s side were made to work hard for their win over Poland last Sunday, with Wout Weghorst scoring a late winner for the Netherlands.

The Dutch had good spells in that game, but they will need to be far better if they are to overcome the second-best ranked team in the world.

France may be missing their star man, but the World Cup runners-up still have plenty of talent on show.

France’s all-time highest goal scorer Olivier Giroud is expected to feature, and the 37-year-old is still a dangerous force up front.

The Frenchman scored 17 goals for AC Milan last season and boasts 57 goals in 134 matches for his nation.

Deschamps’ side may not have been at their best against Austria, but their record at major tournaments and their recent head-to-head form against the Netherlands makes them favourites.

We’re backing the French to win the match by a single goal margin. Giroud to get on the scoresheet is another top bet.

 

Team news

Olivier Giroud is expected to replace the injured Kylian Mbappe in the French team.

Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni are also available after overcoming ankle and foot problems.

Netherlands have no new injury concerns after the clash with Poland. Though one more yellow card for Joey Veerman will see him suspended.

 

Key stats

-  France have won seven of the last eight head-to-heads

-  Netherlands are looking for their fourth straight win

-  Last five meetings have featured goals in both halves

-  France are looking for their third straight win over the Netherlands

 

Suggested bets

France to win

One goal winning margin

Olivier Giroud anytime goalscorer