Football News Update: Netherlands Stun Romania in Euro 2024 Qualifier
In a thrilling Euro 2024 qualifying match, the Netherlands delivered a commanding performance, defeating Romania 3-0 at the Allianz Arena.
The Reds star, Cody Gakpo, was in superb form, scoring once and providing an excellent assist as Donyell Malen found the net twice for the victorious Dutch side.
Coming into the game, the Netherlands were aiming to reach their first European Championship quarter-final since 2008, while Romania were seeking their first qualification for the last-eight since 2000. The match proved to be a one-sided affair, with the Netherlands’ performances overshadowing their opponents’ standings.
The Dutch took the lead within 19 minutes, as Gakpo cut inside from the left flank and unleashed a fierce effort into the bottom corner. Ronald Koeman’s side dominated the first half, but struggled to convert their pressure and possession into clear-cut opportunities.
“The Dutch pressure paid off, as Gakpo robbed the otherwise excellent Radu Dragusin in the box and played in Malen, who finished.”
In the second half, the Netherlands continued to carve Romania open, with their fluid attack requiring the backline to put their bodies on the line. Eventually, the Dutch pressure paid off, as Gakpo robbed the otherwise excellent Radu Dragusin in the box and played in Malen, who finished.
Malen added a third goal in the final minute of injury time, putting the result beyond any doubt and leaving the Romanian side licking their wounds.
This result marks a significant step forward for the Netherlands in their quest to secure a place in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals, while Romania’s hopes of progressing to the next round have taken a significant blow.
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