All three yellow cards shown during the Netherlands’ 2-2 draw with Japan in the opening Group F match were given to players from coach Ronald Koeman‘s side.
As a result, the Netherlands have now received as many or more cards than their opponents in each of their last four matches across all competitions, averaging around two cards per game.
Sweden, meanwhile, have displayed excellent discipline. Across their last five matches, the Scandinavian side have collected only four yellow cards in total.
The Dutch struggled to cope with Japan’s quick transition play, which forced them into several fouls and disciplinary infractions. Facing a physically strong and tactically pragmatic Swedish side—one that also possesses dangerous attacking threats on the flanks—could create similar challenges for Oranje.
The referee for this match is renowned English official Michael Oliver.
During the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Oliver averaged more than 38 fouls per match across his three assignments and issued a total of 18 yellow cards. Looking at his ten most recent matches as referee, eight have gone Over the total cards line, although none featured a red card.
Given the disciplinary trends of both teams and Michael Oliver’s tendency to produce card-heavy contests, the value appears to lie with an Over Cards selection.
Full Match Picks
- Netherlands to receive more cards
- Over Total Cards
First-Half Card Betting Analysis
Nine of Michael Oliver’s last ten matches have featured at least one yellow card in the first half.
In addition, all three matches officiated by the English referee at the 2022 World Cup saw at least one booking before halftime.
Team trends also support an active opening period:
- 3 of the Netherlands’ last 4 matches produced first-half cards.
- 12 of Sweden’s last 15 matches featured at least one card in the opening 45 minutes.
These statistics suggest a strong likelihood of disciplinary action before the break.
First-Half Picks
- Sweden + First-Half Card Handicap
- Over First-Half Cards
Team News
Netherlands
The Dutch squad has no injury concerns or suspensions. However, the fitness condition of Memphis Depay could see him start on the bench.
Sweden
Sweden are expected to field their strongest available lineup, led by the strike partnership of:
- Alexander Isak
- Viktor Gyökeres
Predicted Lineups
Netherlands
Verbruggen; Dumfries, Van Dijk, Van Hecke, Van de Ven; De Jong, Reijnders, Gravenberch; Summerville, Malen, Gakpo.
Sweden
Nordfeldt; Lagerbielke, Hien, Lindelöf; Bernhardsson, Nygren, Karlström, Ayari, Gudmundsson; Isak, Gyökeres.
Form & Head-to-Head Overview
Netherlands
- Drew 2-2 with Japan in their opening World Cup match.
- Have received at least as many cards as their opponents in four consecutive matches.
- Averaging approximately two cards per game over that stretch.
Sweden
- Have collected only four yellow cards across their last five matches.
- Continue to demonstrate strong defensive organization and discipline.
- Possess dangerous attacking options capable of forcing opponents into tactical fouls.
Card Betting Prediction
- Full Match Card Handicap: Netherlands
- Full Match Total Cards: Over
- First-Half Card Handicap: Sweden
- First-Half Total Cards: Over