No comeback, no Euros! Thanks to De Vrij’s header and Gakpo’s crucial moment creating an own goal, the Netherlands came back from two goals down in six minutes to eventually win 2-1 against Turkey, securing their place in the semifinals. From third in the group stage to the semifinals, the Netherlands has replicated Ronaldo’s miracle. Could they follow in Portugal’s footsteps from eight years ago and go all the way?
It has to be said, the Netherlands is the team with the best acting in this Euros. Their first group game saw them narrowly beat Poland 2-1. In their second game, they played a “friendly” draw against France, with each side taking a point. In their final game, they engaged in a free-scoring battle with Austria, losing 2-3 and dropping to third in the group.
However, the Netherlands seemed to be intentionally playing possum. Why? By finishing third in their group, they avoided Spain, France, Portugal, and Germany, the four major powerhouses, and ended up in the bottom half of the draw, where the competition was less intense.
Their choice proved to be wise. When the knockout rounds started, they showed their sharp teeth, destroying Romania 3-0 in the round of 16 with a devastating attack. In the quarterfinals against the surprise package, Turkey, the Netherlands fought hard for their victory, but the result was worth their efforts.
In the first half, the Netherlands attackers lacked accuracy. Akaydin scored first, putting the Orange Lions 0-1 down. But a one-goal deficit was not insurmountable. After the break, Koeman pulled out his trump card, sending on the 1.97m tall Weghorst, immediately turning the tide of the game.
In the 69th minute, Weghorst received a long pass and, from a tight angle, volleyed a shot, forcing Günlük to make a brave save. This led to a corner kick for the Netherlands. Depay delivered a cross, and De Vrij appeared from nowhere to head the ball home and equalize.
Six minutes later, Dumfries sent a low cross from the right wing, bypassing two Turkish defenders, Gakpo reacted at the back post, forcing Merdil to clear the ball into his own net. The originator of this attack was Weghorst, who had his back to goal in front of the box.
Having eliminated both Romania and Turkey, the Netherlands have reached the European Championship semifinals for the first time in 20 years. Their last appearance in the semis dates back to 2004, where they lost 1-2 to the hosts, Portugal. Notably, the Netherlands have also replicated Ronaldo’s miracle, becoming the second team after Portugal in 2016 to reach the semifinals of the tournament after finishing third in their group.
Eight years ago, Portugal finished their group stage with three draws. In the knockout rounds, they overcame Poland and Wales and, in the final, stunned France to lift the trophy. Now, the Netherlands are just one game away from the final. Considering England’s current form, and the fact that they have played two extra-time games, leading to heavy fatigue, the Orange Lions have a good chance of reaching the final!
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