The Netherlands are in the quarter-finals of the Euro. Third in Group D after a logical defeat against Austria (3-2) on the third day, the Oranje got the better of an inexperienced Romania team, this Tuesday, in the round of 16 (3-0). Unlike France, still struggling in terms of realism, the Batavians set their sights on their first opportunity. Served by Simons on the left side, Cody Gakpo fixed Ratiu before going in on his right foot and deceiving Nita at the near post (1-0, 20th).
The Netherlands, who were superior, then missed the break twice, with Stefan De Vrij’s attempt (27th) and Tijani Reijnders’ missed cross (31st). Just before the break, it was Xavi Simons’ turn to hesitate and crush his shot (44th). The domination of Koeman’s men continued during the second half.
Following a corner taken by Memphis Depay, Virgil Van Dijk hit the post with his header (58th). A few minutes later, Cody Gakpo thought he had taken first place in the scorers’ rankings with a fourth goal, but VAR ruled that the Liverpool striker was offside (64th).
Clever replacing luxury
The clumsiness of Simons and Veerman (73rd) delayed the deadline, but the solution came again from Gakpo. Exiled on the left side, the number 11 resisted the shoulder of Radu Dragusin to continue his ball control along the goal line. Taking advantage of the passivity of the Romanians, he took the opportunity to serve Donyell Malen in retreat, who then only had to push the ball into the back of the net (2-0, 83rd).
On the last counter-attack, the Borussia Dortmund striker scored again with a classy goal. Starting from the left, he outwitted the Romanian defence to close his foot (3-0, 90th + 3).
The Netherlands quarter-final will be played against the winner of the Austria-Turkey match. The match, scheduled for Tuesday, July 2 at 9 p.m., can be followed live with commentary on leparisien.fr. :
