The Netherlands produced a dominant display to thrash Romania 3-0 and secure their place in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals. The match, played at the Allianz Arena in Munich in front of 68,000, marked a significant turnaround for the Dutch side after a lacklustre group stage performance.
Under the guidance of manager Ronald Koeman, the Netherlands took control of the game from the outset, dictating the tempo with some crisp passing and fluid movements. Memphis Depay’s pre-match comments about the tournament “starting now” rang true, as the Dutch kept Romania on the back foot.
Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo, the tournament’s leading scorer, continued his red-hot form with the opening goal in the 20th minute, firing a powerful strike past the Romanian goalkeeper, who failed to protect his near post. Gakpo nearly added a sensational solo effort to his name, carrying the ball from near his own penalty area before narrowly missing the target.
Romania’s passionate supporters attempted to lift their team, but the gulf in quality between the sides was evident. The Netherlands enjoyed a significant advantage in possession, creating numerous chances. Their dominance was such that by half-time, they were attempting audacious flicks and even testing the goalkeeper directly from corners. The Dutch finished the night with a staggering 23 shots on goal, with some players even opting to pass instead of shooting in clear-cut opportunities.
Donyell Malen, the Borussia Dortmund forward, came off the bench to add two late goals in the 83rd and 90+3rd minutes, putting the icing on the cake for a convincing Dutch victory. This win marks a significant milestone for the Netherlands, propelling them into the Euro 2024 quarter-finals for the first time after 2008.
*Key Statistics:*
* Possession: Netherlands 62%, Romania 38%
* Shots on target: Netherlands 8, Romania 2
* Corners: Netherlands 6, Romania 2
* Man of the Match: Cody Gakpo (
Netherlands)