Greece and the Netherlands meet in Salónica with the lead in Group 2 of League A in the Nations League on the line. Greece enter the match on six points after two away wins, while the Netherlands are on four and trying to move to the top of the table.
The standings give this game a clear edge. Greece opened with a 1-2 win in Serbia and followed it with a 0-1 victory against Germany, while the Netherlands started with a 1-1 draw with Germany in Amsterdam in Xavi Hernández's debut before beating Serbia 1-2 in Belgrade.
Xavi Hernández wants respect, not fear
Xavi Hernández, now leading the Netherlands, said the team should not fear Greece, but must respect them. He described Greece as a side that is playing well and has a lot of talent, especially in attack, while also noting that it will be a difficult match.
That warning makes sense given Greece's start. Two away wins have put them in control of the group for now, and they have already shown they can handle a tough travel schedule and still collect points.
The Netherlands, meanwhile, are adjusting under Xavi Hernández and working with a squad missing several attackers. That context matters in a game like this, where individual quality can decide a tight contest, but structure and discipline are likely to matter just as much.
With first place at stake, the margin for error is small. Greece can strengthen their grip on Group 2 with another positive result, while the Netherlands can jump to the top if they leave Salónica with the right outcome.
