Finland’s Camp Brimming with Confidence Ahead of Clash with the Netherlands

Finland’s home fixtures against the Netherlands and Poland during the June international break will play a crucial role in determining their chances of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup for the very first time.

The Eagle Owls kicked off their Group G campaign in March, achieving what many considered a bare minimum of four points, thanks to a victory over Malta and a draw with Lithuania, both away matches.

Facing the Netherlands on Saturday and Poland on Tuesday – both at home – will provide a tougher challenge for Jacob Friis’ squad.

The Dutch, currently ranked sixth in the world, will commence their qualification campaign this month after suffering a penalty shoot-out defeat to Spain in a thrilling UEFA Nations League Semi-final.

Despite the calibre and history of their opponents, the Finnish squad remains upbeat, having convened on Monday.

“We’ve been analysing a lot of Holland’s attacking strategies in recent days and how we can counter them,” remarked right-back Nikolai Alho in an interview with the Finnish FA.

“Naturally, we’re up against a formidable team,” he added. “With a home advantage and 90 minutes to play, anything can happen. We’re going for the win!”

Midfielder Robin Lod shares this optimism, bolstered by his impressive season with Minnesota United in MLS, and his trust in his teammates is evident.

“Expectations are high. The opposition is undoubtedly tough – one of the premier national teams in Europe right now. It’s a fantastic opportunity for us, and I have immense faith in our squad.”

Such assertions from the squad are significant, considering that Finland’s solitary victory in the last year came from a 1-0 triumph in Malta.

One reason for the buoyant mood within the camp could be attributed to Danish manager Friis, who has been in charge since January and now enters his second international window with the team.

“The patterns of play are clearer than during my first window, where we weren’t entirely sure what to expect. We’re starting to adapt to the rhythm the head coach desires,” explained Lod.

Alho concurred, stating, “We’ve undergone numerous changes in our playing style and philosophy, and it takes time. Now that we’ve had some additional time together, it’s proving beneficial. We’re well-prepared.”

“Having a slightly extended camp like this is invaluable. We actually get to train properly – unlike in some scenarios, where you can’t train effectively, we’re able to demonstrate what we’ve been working on during practices. Now we have solid training sessions behind us.”

Following the match with the Netherlands, Finland will host Poland at the Helsinki Olympic Stadium, where they will find the visitors without their star striker, Robert Lewandowski.