Three Key Takeaways from Liverpool's Dutch trio so far at Euro 2024

The Dutch National team has been off to a soaring start in the group stages of the Euros this year, as they recently beat Poland 2-1 thanks to a goal from Liverpool's Cody Gakpo in the 29th minute.

This put them back on level terms after conceding first, which provided the Dutchmen with enough momentum for Wout Weghorst to score in the 83rd minute to bring home the win.

The first takeaway worth noting from this performance is that Cody Gakpo plays incredibly well on the left wing, and should remain in that position on Liverpool under Slot.

With increasing speculation that our current winger, Luis Diaz, is off to Barcelona, Gakpo would make a sound replacement.

However, the Dutch nationals only put 4 of their 21 total shots on target, which is shockingly low compared to Poland's 7 of 12 total shots on frame.

Both teams ended up with 1.26 expected goals, making this an incredibly even match in terms of shots by the attacking players.

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk had a decent game, but it certainly wasn't one of his best, as he seemed to be outshined by Stefan de Vrji, who had several key tackles and locked down Poland's attack.

While Virgil may not have been at his best, it's important to note that as the captain of the team, he brings authority and leadership to the pitch, an element of football that is so often overlooked by those who focus primarily on statistics.

You can expect to see a better game from him against France on Friday, as he will be required to step up and play for his life against the favorites to win the entire competition.

As for the last Red on the Dutch team, Ryan Gravenberch, I want to see him get some solid playing time throughout the course of the competition.

While he may be a little on the younger side for a player, the 22-year old midfielder has incredible potential, and should be playing for at least a few minutes every game.

Having made 39 appearances with 4 goals for Liverpool, this could be the perfect exposure he needs to gather the attention of the new gaffer, Arne Slot to show him that Gravenberch is ready for first team football at Anfield.

As for the game against France, you can expect to see Gakpo starting again on the wing, and I would go as far as saying he'll get one in the net.

Van Dijk should have a much better performance, given that star striker Kylian Mbappe is expected to be out with a broken nose.

Finally, we can only hope that Gravenberch sees a bit of playing time to prove to the worlds he's ready for action.