PREVIEW Davis Cup 2024 Semi-Final: Netherlands vs Germany in 50/50 matchup for final spot

We’ve got a potentially brilliant match-up coming up this afternoon, as the Netherlands and Germany face off in the Davis Cup Semi-Final. The semi-final clash brings together a Dutch team full of confidence and enjoying their best Davis Cup campaign in 23 years, and a German squad aiming to claim Davis Cup glory for the first time since 1993.

Both nations are looking to reach the Davis Cup final for the first time in the 21st century, so there’s a lot on the line. Let’s take a look at each team’s run in the tournament so far, and which team will be the favourite heading into this afternoon’s semi-final.

The Netherlands' on a mission

For the Netherlands, reaching the semi-finals has already equalled their best-ever Davis Cup performance, which they achieved in 2001. Their journey to this stage has been a rollercoaster to say the least, particularly in their quarter-final clash against Spain. The standout moment came when Botic van de Zandschulp stunned Rafael Nadal in straight sets, marking the Spanish legend’s final professional match, and ruining his retirement party. Nadal bid farewell to the sport on home soil, but Van de Zandschulp's ruthless performance stole the show and he simply had no sympathy for the retiring legend.

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The Dutch then sealed their place in the semi-finals with a hard-fought doubles victory, as Van de Zandschulp partnered with Wesley Koolhof to defeat the Spanish pair of Carlos Alcaraz and Marcel Granollers. Koolhof, a former world number one in doubles, announced his retirement ahead of the tournament making his win all the more meaningful. But could he retire on the back of winning his country their first ever Davis Cup?

The team’s captain, Paul Haarhuis, was part of the Dutch squad during their 2001 semi-final run, and he’ll be hoping his experience can lead the orange army towards their first every final. With their current momentum, whose to say that the Dutch aren’t ready to go a step further than they’ve ever been before?

Kevin Krawaitz and Tim Putz Davis Cup 2024

Is it Germany’s time?

Germany have had an outstanding Davis Cup campaign so far, coming into the semi-finals in red hot form. Their quarter-final tie against Canada was a particualrly impressive display, with Daniel Altmaier and Jan-Lennard Struff securing victories in the singles to wrap up the tie without needing the doubles match. This 2-0 sweep highlighted the form of the German team, which is especially impressive given the absence of their top-ranked player, world number two Alexander Zverev.

For Germany, the semi-final represents an opportunity to end a 31-year drought. The last time they won the Davis Cup was in 1993, which was also the last time they reached the final. Led by Struff and Altmaier, the German team has consistently delivered under pressure, and the Dutch will certainly be nervous ahead of this matchup. But are Germany ready for their first Davis Cup final in over a quarter of a century?

Daniel Altmaier Davis Cup 2024

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Head-to-head record

Historically, Germany has dominated most Davis Cup ties against the Netherlands, holding a commanding 6-1 lead across their previous encounters. The Netherlands’ only victory came during their memorable 2001 campaign when they defeated Germany 4-1 in the quarter-finals, but do they have enough to defeat the German’s for the first time in over 20 years? That tie back in 2001 featured standout performances from Dutch players such as Raemon Sluiter and Sjeng Schalken, and they’ll need some big performances again today.

On paper, Germany’s historical advantage adds more pressure to the Dutch. However, past results may hold little weight in the context of the current squads, and the Dutch will be hoping to make it to first ever Davis Cup final later this week.

But there’s more to this match up than just a tennis based rivalry. No, the Netherlands and Germany go way back in terms of sports rivalries, and both sets of fans will be keeping their fingers crossed that they can get one over their rivals today. The most famous chapter of this rivalry is from football, particularly the 1974 FIFA World Cup final, where West Germany defeated the Netherlands 2-1 in a match that remains etched in the memories of fans from both nations, and the Netherlands will be desperate to get one over on their German counterparts at last.

As we’ve mentioned before, Germany has traditionally had the upper hand on the tennis courts, with more success stories at the Davis Cup and in the Grand Slams. However, the Netherlands have made significant strides in recent years, particularly in doubles matches, where players like Wesley Koolhof and Matwé Middelkoop have proved their worth on the world stage.D

Davis Cup Zandschulp Koolhof Griekspoor Davis Cup 2024

Ones to watch

Netherlands

The Dutch number 1 Botic van de Zandschulp has been instrumental in his team’s success, particularly with his victory over Rafael Nadal. His ability to perform under pressure makes him a critical asset as the Netherlands aim for their first final.

Wesley Koolhof will be playing in his final tournament before retirement, Koolhof brings invaluable doubles experience. His leadership and skill could prove decisive in the doubles rubber. And  don’t forget Tallon Griekspoor, who will be crucial in supporting Van de Zandschulp and ensuring the Netherlands have a shot at victory.

Germany

Jan-Lennard Struff has been a standout performer so far for Germany. His ability to dominate from the baseline will be a key factor in the singles matches. Daniel Altmaier has also been strong for the Germans, and his strong form has been vital in delivering critical wins for Germany throughout the tournament so far. His contributions will be vital in making sure the Netherlands don’t hand them their firs tloss.

Kevin Krawietz and Tim Pütz are Germany’s experienced doubles pairing, and they only add more strength to the team. Their ability to close out matches when the pressures one could be a game-changer.Wesley

Wesley Koolhof and Botic van de Zandschulp 2024

Who will come out on top?

The semi-final clash between the Netherlands and Germany is expected to be a tightly contested affair. For the Dutch, history beckons as they aim to reach their first-ever Davis Cup final, and their confidence will be high following their dramatic victory over Spain, but there’s no denying that Germany enter the match as favourites, given their unbeaten record so far. While the absence of Alexander Zverev is significant, players like Struff and Altmaier have stepped up impressively, making the team a formidable force.

One things for sure, this matchup should produce some fireworks, and fans could be in for a cracker this afternoon. So will the Dutch make their first ever final? Or will Germany return to the final for the first time in over thirty years?