The Netherlands have made a triumphant return to the Euro quarterfinals for the first time since 2008, cruising past Romania with a commanding 3-0 victory in their round of 16 clash on Tuesday. This resounding win comes as a crucial response following their recent setback against Austria, where they fell short in a 3-2 defeat.
Netherlands Dominate Possession and Shots
From the onset, Romania attempted to control the tempo, particularly in the first quarter of an hour. However, the Dutch side quickly found their rhythm, ultimately maintaining two-thirds of possession throughout the match. This control was mirrored in their attacking prowess as they recorded almost five times more attempts on goal than their Romanian counterparts, amassing a total of 24 shots.
Despite Romania's early assertiveness, it was the Netherlands who provided the flair and finishing. Cody Gakpo, continuing his scintillating form, opened the scoring with his third goal of the tournament. Gakpo’s performance has been a standout for the Oranje this year, with his contributions proving vital once again.
Late Dominance Seals the Victory
The match witnessed a crescendo in the dying minutes with Donyell Malen delivering a late double to seal Romania’s fate. Virgil van Dijk almost added his name to the scoresheet with a powerful header that struck the post, signaling the persistent pressure maintained by the Dutch.
In the 83rd minute, Cody Gakpo showcased his playmaking abilities by setting up Malen for the Netherlands’ second goal. As the match entered stoppage time, Malen struck again to put any remaining doubts to rest, securing an emphatic 3-0 win.
Solid Defensive Display Praised
The defensive solidity of the Netherlands was a key factor in their triumph. Virgil van Dijk, the rock at the back, expressed his satisfaction post-match: "Very proud, sure, and pleased as well. We were defensively sound and solid and did not give up much." Reflecting on the team's need for a strong showing after their previous loss, van Dijk added, "After a turbulent week, where a lot was said, we had to show something and we did that. We are self-critical and we knew it had to be a lot better after the last game and everyone had to take responsibility and today they showed they wanted to."
Head coach Ronald Koeman echoed these sentiments, noting the team's awareness and improvement, "I thought there were a lot of good things we did. The team realised that the last game was really bad in all aspects and so they have given out a strong message. We played well in the whole game, except the first 10 minutes when there was a lot of pressure." Koeman also highlighted the strategic preparation against Romania, "We had analysed Romania well. Belgium showed us there was a lot of space to exploit against Romania. But it took a long time before we got the second goal."
Standout Performances Drive Team Forward
Xavi Simons earned special praise for his contribution, with Koeman singling him out: "I thought Xavi Simons was our best player too, he drove the team forward and was nice and aggressive." This spirited performance was critical in ensuring the Dutch kept Romania at bay and dictated the game.
Reflecting on the match, Cody Gakpo offered insights into the team's mindset and execution, "This was the answer we had to our last performance – good game, good goals, we played good football. Of course we could do better but a good showing after the last game. A good step in that next direction. We felt we were in control even though they were a dangerous opponent."
The comprehensive manner of the Netherlands' victory has buoyed their spirits as they now set their sights on the quarterfinal clash against Austria or Turkey in Berlin on Saturday. With such a dominant display, the Oranje will be looking to carry this momentum forward and assert themselves as strong contenders in the tournament.