The Netherlands booked their place in the Euro 2024 semi-finals with a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over a spirited Turkey at a loud Olympiastadion in Berlin, the German capital city.
A tense affair, overshadowed by the pre-match controversy surrounding Merih Demiral’s suspension, saw both teams create chance after chance in the search for the opening goal.
Turkey, led by the returning Hakan Calhanoglu, threatened with set-pieces, while the Dutch, spurred on by Xavi Simons and Cody Gakpo, struggled to find a breakthrough.
The deadlock was broken just before halftime when Samet Akaydin headed home a well-delivered Arda Guler cross. Turkey, spurred by the lead, held firm defensively in the second half,. The Dutch frustration grew, prompting Ronald Koeman to introduce Wout Weghorst for Steven Bergwijn.
The change almost backfired as Manchester City star Nathan Aké’s clumsy challenge on Arda Guler nearly resulted in a red card. However, the Dutch survived and Weghorst’s last-ditch tackle on Kaan Ayhan after a Verbruggen spill became a turning point in the thrilling encounter.
Weghorst’s volley forced a save from Mert Gunok, and from the resulting corner, Stefan de Vrij rose unmarked to head home Memphis Depay’s delivery. Six minutes later, Denzel Dumfries found Gakpo with a teasing cross. The Liverpool forward’s touch, combined with a deflection off Mert Muldur, sent the ball past Gunok for the unlikely winner.
Turkey threw everything forward in a desperate search for an equalizer. Semih Kilicsoy forced a superb save from Verbruggen in the dying moments, but the Dutch held on to secure a dramatic victory.
This win sets up a mouthwatering semi-final clash against England for the Dutch. They will need to be at their best to overcome another determined opponent, but on the evidence of this comeback, they are genuine contenders for the Euro 2024 title.