The Netherlands showcased their best performance yet at Euro 2024, securing their first quarterfinal appearance in 16 years with a decisive 3-0 victory over Romania on Tuesday.
Cody Gakpo opened the scoring in the 20th minute, setting the tone for the Dutch side. The momentum continued as substitute Donyell Malen netted two crucial goals in the latter stages of the match, sealing the win and advancing the Netherlands further into the tournament.
\"I think the whole performance today was outstanding and that's what we need to have a chance to continue in this tournament,\" said coach Ronald Koeman. \"This is the level. If you go down in that level, then we don't reach the final.\" Despite missing several opportunities to extend their lead and captain Virgil van Dijk striking the woodwork, the Netherlands displayed significant improvement from their group stage, where they suffered a 3-2 defeat to Austria.
Koeman acknowledged the challenges faced early on, noting the aggressive play from Romania. \"Sometimes it's difficult to explain why you play bad,\" he remarked. \"What we created was good football … Maybe one critical point was that it took too long to score the second one.\"
The match was also memorable for Romania and their passionate yellow-clad fans, who have become a highlight of Euro 2024. Qualifying as group winners, Romania made only their second knockout stage appearance in the continental championship.
The vibrant support from the Romanian fans provided an electric atmosphere, with the yellow wall's cheers resonating long after the final whistle. Romania coach Edward Iordanescu expressed pride in his team's effort, despite the loss. \"Today we ended a great story, which we started two years ago. We continued that story here in Germany along with the fans of the national team,\" he said. \"The team gave a great effort, but there is some sadness. We wanted more, but we gave our all.\"
Reference(s):
Improved Netherlands beat Romania 3-0 to reach Euro 2024 quarterfinals
cgtn.com
