Netherlands v Croatia live: Malen goal puts Oranje in front

A good Uefa idea - international friendlies are not missed. However players who've slogged through a season with a World Cup in the middle, still playing competitive football in mid-June? Nah, that isn't fair or right.

It's hard not to fancy Netherlands, who've got more speed, invention and goals. Except Croatia are expert find-a-way-to-win-ers, and if their midfield has a good day it's a pretty tough one to keep the ball from.

Croatia, meanwhile, pick most of their old lads. Of tonight's team, eight started the World Cup semi against Argentina, and Josko Gvardiol would be a ninth were he not injured. They still don't have any serious routes to goal, though it's worth noting that Ivan Perisic is playing full-back which should give them a bit more thrust down the left.

Ronald Koeman picks a really young team. Justin Bijloe, the keeper, is 25, likewise Teun Koopmeiners, with Lutsharel Geertruida - making his debut - Mats Wieffer, Xavi Simons, Donyell Malan and Cody Gakpo are all younger, most of them significantly so.

Imma write these down and then we'll chat about what they mean.

Tonight we bring you LIVE coverage of Holland's Nations League semi-final against Croatia. Croatia somehow came third in the World Cup but given an ageing team now need to build for the future. Netherlands, on the other hand, were recently walloped 4-0 by France and look to have lots to do if they're to contend for the big pots once more. Kick-off: 7.45pm BST