Netherlands Advance to Euro 2024 Quarterfinals with 3-0 Win over Romania
The Netherlands reached the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 for the first time in 16 years after a convincing 3-0 victory over Romania at Allianz Arena.
Ronald Koeman made several changes to his side, with Denzel Dumfries, Steven Bergwijn and Xavi Simons coming in for Lustharel Geertruida, Joey Veerman and Donyell Malen. Edward Iordanescu also shuffled the Romania team with Vasile Mogo coming in for the suspended Nicusor Bancu at left-back and a return to the side for Dennis Man instead of Florinel Coman.
The Netherlands took an early lead when Cody Gakpo opened scoring with a brilliant finish midway through the first half. The Liverpool forward got his third goal of Euro 2024 in the second half, while Donyell Malen added two more to secure the win for Koeman's side.
Romania gave Netherlands a scare with early pressure and shots on target, but Gakpo's goal changed the pattern of the game. The Netherlands missed numerous chances after that but made sure they did not risk paying for it when Malen scored late on from Gakpo's ball.
The victory sets up a quarter-final clash against either Turkey or Austria for the Dutch team, who can be proud of their performance so far in the tournament.
Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed that Euro 2024 will be his last European Championship appearance. The Portuguese superstar, who is his country's all-time leading scorer with 130 goals, made his debut with Portugal in 2003 and won the tournament in 2016. Ronaldo has yet to find the back of the net in Germany but remains determined to give his all for the national team.