The Netherlands want to get the title defense to a flying start against Sweden
Defending champions The Netherlands open their European Championship 2022 campaign against Sweden on Saturday.
The Swedes aim to avoid another harmful defeat after previous losses against the Dutch in major tournaments.
Here, the news agency PA looks forward to Saturday’s actions.
Reigning champion who wants to beat cross-country running
The defending champions the Netherlands meet Sweden in group C and want to banish the memories of a 5-1 defeat against England in their tournament structure.
Boss Mark Parsons, who has previously managed the Chelsea reserves, said: “We will not start the tournament in the best possible way, and I think we have accepted that, but we really believe in our qualities and that we get every minute and every match. together will only make us stronger. “
Sweden aims for repayment
Sweden is looking to take revenge for its defeat against the Netherlands in the European Championships 2017 in the quarterfinals. They also lost to the same opponent in the World Cup semi-final three years ago.
Manager Peter Gerhardsson said: “It is always good to start well because if you win this type of match, you show a high level from the start. Then it’s hopefully a long tournament and you can grow into it. ”
Pitch problem
On Friday, Swiss manager Nils Nielsen criticized the plan for their original training base, Rothwell Juniors, after his team was forced to train in Huddersfield before their group C match against Portugal on Saturday. He said: “It did not meet the standard.”
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July 10th
Group D: Belgium v Iceland (17.00, Manchester City Academy Stadium)
Group D: France vs. Italy (20:00, New York Stadium)