Netherlands vs. France: Score, Reaction for World Cup 2018 Qualifying

France defeated the Netherlands 1-0 in 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying on Monday night in Group A.

A 30th-minute goal by Paul Pogba from distance was enough to give the visitors maximum points in Amsterdam, but the French had plenty of opportunities to increase the score.

The Dutch were disappointing on the night and failed to penetrate France’s defence, which controlled the hosts’ best efforts.

Both nations made a single change, with injuries forcing their hands. Wesley Sneijder missed out for the Dutch, while Bacary Sagna was ruled out for France. Davy Propper took the captain’s place for the hosts, while Djibril Sidibe grabbed a starting berth for France.

OptaJean highlighted the recent history between the two sides:

2 – France have won their last two games v Netherlands (2-0 in March 2014 & 3-2 in March 2016), their best run since 1981-1982 (2). Three ?

— OptaJean (@OptaJean) October 10, 2016

France dominated possession in the early stages as they pressed high up the field. Dimitri Payet linked with the attack, and his presence opened up space, allowing Kevin Gameiro to test goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg.

The Netherlands lost influential attacker Quincy Promes to an injury after only 15 minutes, and Manchester United’s Memphis …

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