The Netherlands secured a spot in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals with a resounding 3-0 victory over Romania on Tuesday afternoon. Despite a shaky start, the Oranje delivered their strongest performance yet, dominating the match from start to finish. Ronald Koeman’s side showcased their attacking prowess, with Cody Gakpo, Donyell Malen, and Memphis Depay leading the charge.
Romania’s Bright Start Fades Away
Romania began the match with confidence, pushing forward with intent and purpose. However, their momentum was short-lived, as the Netherlands took control of the match. Gakpo’s fierce near-post effort put the Netherlands ahead within 20 minutes, and despite their efforts, Romania couldn’t recover. The Romanian side struggled to contain the Dutch attack, with Stefan de Vrij and Virgil van Dijk posing a significant threat in the air.
Dutch Domination
The Netherlands asserted their dominance in the first half, racking up seven shots and ten corners. De Vrij’s far-post header scraped the side-netting, and Depay’s tap-in was thwarted by Radu Dragusin’s excellent intervention. Xavi Simons spurned an excellent chance to press home their advantage moments before the break, but the Netherlands continued to push forward. Their relentless pressure paid off in the second half, with Malen scoring a brace to seal the victory.
Second-Half Brilliance
After the break, the Netherlands continued to dominate, with Van Dijk’s header grazing the outside of the post. Gakpo’s effort was ruled out for offside, but the Netherlands eventually scored their second through Malen’s close-range tap-in. The Borussia Dortmund attacker swiftly doubled his tally by adding his side’s third in stoppage-time, capping a strong Netherlands performance.
Malen’s Brace Secures Victory
Malen’s brace was the icing on the cake for the Netherlands, who had already secured their spot in the quarter-finals. His first goal was a testament to his poaching ability, as he tapped home from close range. His second goal showcased his pace and power, as he finished off a swift counter-attack with an excellent finish.
Quarter-Final Awaits
The Netherlands will face the winner of Austria’s meeting with Turkey in the quarter-final of Euro 2024, following their impressive victory over Romania. The Oranje will be looking to continue their dominance and secure a spot in the semi-finals.
Key Takeaways
– Netherlands beats Romania 3-0 to reach Euro 2024 quarter-finals
– Donyell Malen scores brace in dominant Dutch performance
– Cody Gakpo opens scoring with fierce near-post effort
– Netherlands faces winner of Austria vs. Turkey in quarter-final
– Ronald Koeman’s side showcases attacking prowess
– Romania struggles to contain Dutch attack
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