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The Jong Oranje may have already qualified for the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, but they are now also anxious to reach the final of the UEFA European Under-21 Championship in order to defend their title in their own country. Tonight’s semi-final against England U-21 kicks off at 18:15 pm.
Otman Bakkal
The Netherlands finished on top in Group A, ahead of Israel, Belgium and Portugal, reaching the semi-finals of the tournament and at the same time making sure of automatic qualification for the Beijing Olympics. In the semi-finals they will now meet England U-21, who are coached by former international Stuart Pierce. “The Jong Oranje have technically skilful players who play high-tempo football. They will play in front of 26, 000 fans in the sold-out Abe Lenstra Stadion in Heerenveen, where the atmosphere is superb”, said the former Manchester City manager. “It will be a tough and tight game.” Otman Bakkal, who replaces the injured Ismail Aissati as playmaker, will represent PSV. Forward Roy Beerens starts on the bench. Netherlands coach De Haan is yet to decide between Calvin Jong-A-Pin and Erik Pieters at left-back, but De Ridder keeps his place as right winger, at the expense of Jenner, while goalkeeper Boy Waterman has shaken off a back problem.
Netherlands U-21 starting line-up
Boy Waterman; Gianni Zuiverloon, Ron Vlaar, Ryan Donk, Calvin Jong-A-Pin/Erik Pieters; Danil de Ridder, Hedwiges Maduro, Otman Bakkal, Royston Drenthe; Ryan Babel, Maceo Rigters
