Euro 2024: Netherlands set up semi-final against England
Netherlands 2 - 1 Turkey
The Netherlands came from behind to defeat Turkey, setting up a Euro 2024 semi-final against England.
An own goal by Mert Muldur, pressured by Cody Gakpo, helped the Dutch take the lead after trailing at half-time.
Turkey's centre-back Samet Akaydin had put his team ahead, heading in Arda Guler's cross after an impressive first half. He celebrated by running to the fans, kissing his badge, and kneeling to pray, while the substitutes sprinted down the touchline.
However, Turkey's joy was short-lived as the Netherlands, sluggish in the first half, came alive after the break, inspired by substitute Wout Weghorst.
Stefan de Vrij equalised with a header, shortly after Weghorst made a crucial defensive interception to prevent Kaan Ayhan from scoring.
Turkey nearly extended their lead when Real Madrid's Guler hit the post with a stunning free-kick but failed to capitalise on their opportunities.
Now, Ronald Koeman's side will face England in Dortmund on Wednesday, after Gareth Southgate's team triumphed over Switzerland on penalties. A spot in the final against either France or Spain awaits.
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The Netherlands had been under pressure before their impressive 3-0 victory over Romania in the last 16, but their first-half performance against Turkey was lacklustre.
Passive, predictable, and vulnerable, they struggled against Turkey's counter-attacks and failed to create sufficient chances.
Facing some fierce Turkish support in Berlin, Koeman made a bold move by substituting Steven Bergwijn with Weghorst at half-time.
Big goal, big performance 💪
— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) July 6, 2024
👏 Stefan de Vrij @Vivo_GLOBAL | #EUROPOTM pic.twitter.com/LW6ZaTIWDr
Weghorst immediately made an impact with his height, intelligent runs, and defensive work-rate.
After taking the lead, the Netherlands had to withstand Turkey's attempts to equalise. Goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen made a crucial late save, and De Vrij blocked key shots inside the area.
Unused substitute Bertug Yildirim was sent off for dissent, and at the final whistle, the Dutch players fell to their knees in relief, with Gakpo collapsing in celebration. Weghorst, however, received most of the fans' admiration for his game-changing performance.
It was a disappointing end to an otherwise brilliant tournament for Turkey. They overcame Austria in the last 16 and came close to upsetting a European powerhouse in Berlin.
Akaydin’s goal highlighted a near-perfect first half for Turkey, as they stifled the Netherlands and posed a constant threat on the break.
Despite glimpses of promise from Gakpo and Memphis Depay, the Dutch were ineffective until Weghorst’s entrance.
Baris Alper Yilmaz’s runs tested Denzel Dumfries, while Guler’s skill kept Virgil van Dijk busy. Ultimately, Turkey's lack of ruthlessness cost them, as the Netherlands found their rhythm, and Turkey's response came too late.
Turkey can take pride in their strong performances throughout the tournament, but this missed opportunity denied them a third European Championship semi-final.
What did you think?
Olivia Taylor from Chorlton in Greater Manchester enjoyed the match as a neutral. She said: "That was a fantastic match. The Netherlands probably deserved the win, but you have to give credit to Turkey. They've had a fantastic Euro 2024 and can keep their heads held high."
William, a Liverpool fan, added: The change at half-time from Ronald Koeman changed the game. His side then dug deep and had the better chances to win the match which they did."
