Netherlands see off brave Türkiye to seal spot in semis
Wout Weghorst, on loan at Hoffenheim last season, helped inspire a stunning second-half comeback for Xavi Simons and the Netherlands.
Netherlands 2-1 Türkiye
Goals: 0-1 Akaydin (35’), 1-1 De Vrij (70'), 2-1 Müldür o.g. (76')
The Netherlands and Türkiye immediately showed just how much they both wanted the last Euro 2024 semi-final spot, taking the ball forward as quickly as possible. The Dutch shaded an opening phase in which Xavi Simons and Salih Özcan traded off-target efforts from distance. The ambition and spirit of Türkiye gave them the upper hand, and the lead at the break as Samet Akaydin rose to turn a perfect cross from Arda Güler in. The introduction of Wout Weghorst at the break changed the course of the play, as the Netherlands took a more aerial route forward that led to Stefan De Vrij heading the leveller from a corner. Just minutes later, Cody Gakpo pressured Mert Müldür into turning the ball into his own net from a Dumfries pass. Türkiye gave everything they could to respond, but their immense efforts were in vain as the Netherlands hung on to set up a semi-final clash against England in Dortmund on Wednesday 10 July.
Watch: The best of Wout Weghorst in 2023/24
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