Football rivalries are the heartbeat of the sport, and few matchups carry the weight and excitement of the Netherlands National Football Team vs England National Football Team Matches. These two footballing powerhouses have a storied history filled with thrilling encounters, dramatic moments, and unforgettable goals. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just dipping your toes into the world of international football, this article dives into the rich history of their clashes, key matches, standout players, and what makes this rivalry so special. So, grab a cup of tea (or maybe an orange juice for the Dutch fans), and let’s explore this epic football saga!
A Brief History of the Netherlands National Football Team vs England National Football Team Matches Rivalry
The Netherlands National Football Team vs England National Football Team Matches have been locking horns on the pitch since their first recorded meeting in 1935. Over the decades, their encounters have ranged from friendly matches to high-stakes battles in major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship, and UEFA Nations League. Both nations boast passionate fan bases—England’s Three Lions supporters and the Netherlands’ Oranje Legion—and a shared love for attacking, entertaining football.
What makes this rivalry so compelling? It’s not just about geography (though the North Sea neighbors are close enough to fuel some friendly banter). It’s the contrast in footballing philosophies: England’s grit, physicality, and determination versus the Netherlands’ flair, technical brilliance, and “Total Football” legacy. Add in some iconic moments—like Marco van Basten’s hat-trick in 1988 or Ollie Watkins’ last-gasp winner in 2024—and you’ve got a rivalry that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
Head-to-Head Record
As of 2025, the two teams have faced off 23 times in competitive and friendly matches. The record is remarkably balanced:
-
England Wins: 7
-
Netherlands Wins: 7
-
Draws: 9
-
Goals Scored by England: 33
-
Goals Scored by Netherlands: 30
This near-even split shows just how competitive these matches have been. Neither side has consistently dominated, making every new encounter a toss-up.
Iconic Matches Between Netherlands National Football Team vs England National Football Team Matches
Let’s take a walk down memory lane and revisit some of the most memorable Netherlands National Football Team vs England National Football Team Matches. These games have defined the rivalry and left lasting impressions on fans worldwide.
1. Euro 1988: Netherlands 3-1 England
One of the most iconic clashes came during the group stage of UEFA Euro 1988 in West Germany. The Netherlands, led by the legendary trio of Ruud Gullit, Frank Rijkaard, and Marco van Basten, were at the peak of their powers. England, featuring stars like Gary Lineker and Glenn Hoddle, were no pushovers, but they were no match for the Dutch that day.
Marco van Basten stole the show, scoring a sensational hat-trick in a 3-1 victory. His clinical finishing and flair epitomized the Netherlands’ attacking prowess. This match was a stepping stone for the Dutch, who went on to win the tournament, claiming their first and only major international trophy. For England, it was a tough lesson in facing the “Total Football” machine.
2. Euro 1996: England 4-1 Netherlands
Fast forward to Euro 1996, hosted in England, and the tables turned dramatically. In a group stage match at Wembley, England delivered one of their finest performances under Terry Venables. Alan Shearer and Teddy Sheringham each scored twice, with Patrick Kluivert netting a late consolation for the Netherlands. The 4-1 scoreline remains one of England’s most emphatic wins over the Dutch.
This match was a showcase of England’s attacking verve and home-crowd energy. For Dutch fans, it was a rare off-day for a team featuring talents like Dennis Bergkamp and Clarence Seedorf. The game is still celebrated by England fans as a high point in their Euro history.
3. UEFA Nations League 2019: Netherlands 3-1 England (AET)
The inaugural UEFA Nations League semi-final in 2019 was a rollercoaster. England took the lead through a Marcus Rashford penalty, but the Netherlands fought back. Matthijs de Ligt equalized, and England’s defensive errors in extra time led to an own goal by Kyle Walker and a strike from Quincy Promes. The 3-1 loss after extra time was a gut punch for England, who were hoping to reach the final under Gareth Southgate. For the Netherlands, it was a sign of their resurgence under Ronald Koeman.
4. Euro 2024 Semi-Final: England 2-1 Netherlands
One of the most recent and dramatic encounters came in the UEFA Euro 2024 semi-final in Dortmund. The Netherlands struck first with a thunderous long-range goal from Xavi Simons, but England responded quickly. Harry Kane equalized from a controversial penalty after a challenge by Denzel Dumfries. The match seemed destined for extra time until substitute Ollie Watkins scored a stunning 91st-minute winner, assisted by Cole Palmer, sending England to the final. This heart-stopping victory was a testament to England’s resilience and Southgate’s bold substitutions. For the Netherlands, it was a crushing defeat, as they missed out on their first Euro final since 1988.
5. Women’s UEFA Nations League 2023: England 3-2 Netherlands
The women’s teams have also contributed to this rivalry’s legacy. In a thrilling UEFA Women’s Nations League match in 2023 at Wembley, England’s Lionesses staged a second-half comeback. Trailing 2-0 at halftime to goals from Lineth Beerensteyn, England roared back with strikes from Georgia Stanway, Lauren Hemp, and Ella Toone. The 3-2 victory kept England’s hopes alive for Olympic qualification and showcased the growing intensity of the women’s rivalry.
6. Women’s Euro 2025: England 4-0 Netherlands
In July 2025, the Lionesses delivered a masterclass against the Netherlands in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 group stage. Lauren Hemp and Lauren James shone, with Hemp contributing two goals and an assist. The 4-0 scoreline underlined England’s dominance and their credentials as tournament favorites. For the Netherlands, it was a tough day, but their resilience under coach Andries Jonker kept them in the hunt for the knockout stages.
Key Players Who Defined the Netherlands National Football Team vs England National Football Team Matches Rivalry
Every great football rivalry is shaped by its stars, and Netherlands National Football Team vs England National Football Team Matches have seen some of the game’s biggest names leave their mark.
Netherlands Legends
-
Johan Cruyff: The architect of Total Football, Cruyff’s influence loomed large in the 1970s, though he didn’t face England in major tournaments.
-
Marco van Basten: His hat-trick in Euro 1988 remains one of the greatest individual performances in this rivalry.
-
Dennis Bergkamp: The Arsenal legend’s technical brilliance often troubled England’s defense in the 1990s.
-
Cody Gakpo: A modern star, Gakpo’s flair and goal-scoring prowess were on display in Euro 2024.
-
Virgil van Dijk: The Dutch captain’s commanding presence at the back has been crucial in recent encounters.
England Icons
-
Bobby Moore: The 1966 World Cup hero faced the Netherlands in early matches, setting the tone for England’s resolve.
-
Alan Shearer: His brace in Euro 1996 was pivotal in England’s dominant win.
-
Harry Kane: England’s all-time leading scorer, Kane’s penalty in Euro 2024 was a turning point in their semi-final victory.
-
Lauren Hemp: A standout for the Lionesses, Hemp’s flair and goal-scoring ability shone in the 2023 and 2025 women’s matches.
-
Ollie Watkins: His dramatic winner in Euro 2024 cemented his place in England’s history books.
Tactical Breakdown: How They Match Up
The Netherlands and England bring contrasting styles to the pitch, making their clashes tactically fascinating.
Netherlands’ Style
The Dutch are synonymous with “Total Football,” a philosophy pioneered by Johan Cruyff and Rinus Michels. It emphasizes fluidity, positional interchange, and attacking flair. Even today, under coaches like Ronald Koeman, the Netherlands rely on quick passing, wing play, and clinical forwards like Cody Gakpo and Memphis Depay. Defensively, players like Virgil van Dijk provide stability, but the Dutch can be vulnerable to counter-attacks, as seen in their 2024 loss to England.
England’s Approach
England’s style has evolved under Gareth Southgate and Sarina Wiegman (for the women’s team). The men’s team blends physicality with tactical discipline, often using a 4-2-3-1 or 3-4-3 formation to balance defense and attack. Players like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham provide goal-scoring threats, while the Lionesses, under Wiegman, combine pace (Hemp) with creativity (James). England’s resilience in comebacks, like in Euro 2024, shows their mental toughness.
Key Tactical Battles
-
Midfield Control: England’s Declan Rice and Kobbie Mainoo vs. the Netherlands’ Frenkie de Jong and Xavi Simons. Whoever dominates the midfield often controls the game.
-
Wing Duels: Dutch wingers like Donyell Malen test England’s full-backs, while England’s Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden challenge the Netherlands’ defense.
-
Set-Pieces: Both teams are dangerous from corners and free-kicks, with Van Dijk and Kane being aerial threats.
Why This Netherlands National Football Team vs England National Football Team Matches Rivalry Matters
The Netherlands National Football Team vs England National Football Team Matches rivalry isn’t just about goals and trophies—it’s about passion, history, and cultural pride. For the Dutch, beating England is a chance to showcase their technical brilliance and remind the world of their footballing heritage. For England, victories over the Netherlands are steps toward reclaiming their status as a global football power.
The rivalry also extends to the women’s game, where both nations are powerhouses. England’s Lionesses, under Wiegman (herself a Dutch native), and the Netherlands’ OranjeLeeuwinnen have added new chapters to this story, with matches like the 2023 Nations League thriller showing the growing stakes.
Recent Trends and Future Outlook
Recent matches, like the Euro 2024 semi-final and Women’s Euro 2025 group stage, suggest this rivalry is as intense as ever. England’s men have had the edge in major tournaments, winning two of three European Championship meetings, but the Netherlands remain a formidable foe. The women’s teams are equally matched, with England’s recent 4-0 win balanced by the Netherlands’ past successes, like their 2017 Euro title.
Looking ahead, both teams are in transition. The Netherlands, with young stars like Xavi Simons and a solid core under Koeman, are building toward the 2026 World Cup. England, with talents like Bellingham and Palmer, aim to end their men’s trophy drought. The women’s teams, meanwhile, are set to clash again in future tournaments, with the 2028 Women’s Euro looming large.
How to Watch Netherlands National Football Team vs England National Football Team Matches
Can’t get enough of this rivalry? Here’s how to catch the next Netherlands vs England showdown:
-
TV and Streaming: In the UK, matches are typically broadcast on BBC or ITV (ITV1 for Euro 2024). In the Netherlands, NOS or Ziggo Sport often cover games. Check UEFA’s official website for international broadcasters.
-
Live Scores: Apps like Sofascore and Flashscore provide real-time updates, stats, and lineups.
-
Tickets: For live matches, check UEFA’s ticket portal or the England Supporters Travel Club for away games.
Fun Facts About the Rivalry
-
The Netherlands’ orange kits are inspired by the House of Orange-Nassau, a nod to their royal heritage.
-
England’s biggest win over the Netherlands (4-1 in 1996) came at Wembley, while the Dutch have never won at Wembley in competitive matches.
-
The 2024 Euro semi-final was refereed by Felix Zwayer, whose controversial penalty call sparked heated debate among Dutch fans.
Conclusion
The Netherlands National Football Team vs England National Football Team Matches rivalry is a celebration of football at its finest. From Van Basten’s heroics to Watkins’ last-minute magic, these matches have produced moments that live long in the memory. Whether it’s the men’s teams battling for European glory or the women’s teams lighting up Wembley, this rivalry delivers drama, passion, and world-class talent every time.
