Oct 14,V7N- Netherlands striker Cody Gakpo believes his team will find more opportunities to attack in their upcoming Nations League clash against Germany, following a challenging match against Hungary on Friday. The Dutch struggled to break down Hungary’s defense in a 1-1 draw, with Denzel Dumfries scoring a late equalizer after Virgil van Dijk was sent off.

Gakpo expects a more open contest on Monday, saying Germany’s attacking approach will likely create space for the Netherlands. "Germany will play a bit more forward, which will create spaces for us," he said at a press conference.

The two teams played out a 2-2 draw in an open game last month, and a similar attacking contest is anticipated in Munich. Germany currently top the group with seven points, while the Netherlands are in second place, two points behind after three matches.

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman acknowledged the difficulties faced in the Hungary game but said improvements were made in the second half, especially with deeper runs. However, with Van Dijk suspended, Koeman must choose a replacement for the captaincy, with Stefan de Vrij and Denzel Dumfries among the candidates.

Koeman emphasized the leadership qualities of Van Dijk, noting that others will now need to step up in his absence. "Virgil is someone who coaches a lot from the back. Now others have to do that," Koeman said, adding that it will be interesting to see how the team adapts without their regular captain.

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