The Netherlands secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Romania in their round of 16 clash on Tuesday, propelling them into the Euro quarterfinals for the first time since 2008. In a match marked by dominant possession and numerous scoring opportunities, the Dutch side showcased a blend of resilience and flair that effectively silenced their critics following a disappointing result against Austria.
A Statement Performance
After a turbulent week, where a lot was said about their previous 3-2 loss to Austria, this performance was about more than just advancing to the next round. It was a statement. "We had to show something and we did that," Virgil van Dijk stated firmly. "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."
The Dutch captain was nearly on the scoresheet himself, with a header that rattled the post, epitomizing a match where the Netherlands recorded almost five times more attempts on goal than Romania, tallying a total of 24 shots.
Early Romanian Resistance
Romania initially controlled the tempo in the first quarter of an hour, looking to unsettle the Dutch defense. Identifying the spaces Belgium had previously exploited, coach Ronald Koeman noted the team's early challenges. "We played well in the whole game, except the first 10 minutes when there was a lot of pressure," he said. This period of Romanian dominance, however, was short-lived as the Netherlands gradually asserted their control.
Breakthrough and Ascendancy
Cody Gakpo, who has been in scintillating form throughout the tournament, scored his third goal of the tournament to break the deadlock. His sharp instincts and composed finishing have been pivotal for his team, and this match was no exception. Expressing his satisfaction post-match, Gakpo remarked, "This was the answer we had to our last performance—good game, good goals, we played good football."
The Dutch side's dominance was not just in attack but also in the way they managed the game. Holding nearly two-thirds of possession, they stifled Romanian advances and dictated the pace of play. "I wasn't scared they'd equalise because we defended so well," Koeman asserted. "The team realized that the last game was really bad in all aspects, and so they have given out a strong message."
The Malen Show
Donyell Malen sealed the match in the final minutes with a late double that highlighted his clinical finishing and opportunism. Malen’s first goal came in the 83rd minute, set up brilliantly by Gakpo. The second, arriving in stoppage time, ensured there was no way back for Romania.
Koeman was effusive in his praise for Malen and the overall defensive effort: "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."
Star Performers
Another standout was Xavi Simons, who drove the team forward with his aggressive play and relentless energy. "I thought Xavi Simons was our best player too, he drove the team forward and was nice and aggressive," Koeman noted. In a match where the collective effort was paramount, individual brilliance also played a crucial role.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, the Netherlands have earned a spot in the quarter-final, where they will face either Austria or Turkey in Berlin on Saturday. As the team prepares for their next challenge, van Dijk and the rest of the squad will be aware that maintaining this level of performance will be critical if they are to continue their journey in the tournament.
Reflecting on the match, Van Dijk summed it up perfectly: "We could have scored a lot more. After a turbulent week, we showed everyone what we are capable of."
The Netherlands have sent a strong message to the rest of the tournament—underestimate this team at your peril.