The Netherlands stormed into the Euro 2020 quarterfinals, securing their first berth in the last eight since 2008 with a resounding 3-0 victory over Romania in the round of 16 on Tuesday. Donyell Malen led the charge with a brace, while Cody Gakpo provided an early goal and a crucial assist to pave the way for the Dutch triumph.
The Oranje showcased a marked improvement from their group stage performances, displaying renewed aggression and intensity against a determined Romanian team. Gakpo’s standout performance, particularly his assist for Malen’s second goal in stoppage time, proved pivotal in sealing the win.
Early on, Cody Gakpo broke the deadlock in the 20th minute, capitalizing on a sweeping move that saw Xavi Simons find him on the left flank. Gakpo evaded Andrei Ratiu’s challenge and slotted the ball past goalkeeper Florin Nita.
The Netherlands dominated possession after Gakpo’s goal, with Stefan de Vrij coming close to doubling the lead shortly after. However, missed chances plagued the Dutch throughout the first half, including a glaring opportunity squandered by Xavi Simons just before halftime.
The second half saw a continuation of Dutch dominance, with Memphis Depay and Virgil van Dijk narrowly missing opportunities. Gakpo had a goal ruled out for offside before taking control with seven minutes remaining, driving through the Romanian defense and setting up Malen for a tap-in goal.
With Romania desperately seeking a way back into the game, Malen struck again in stoppage time, securing the victory. He exploited a counterattack opportunity, coolly slotting the ball past Nita to seal a 3-0 triumph.
The Netherlands, having endured criticism for their lackluster performance in the group stage, showed a significant improvement in their approach and execution against Romania. Their victory sets up a quarterfinal clash with either Turkey or Austria, the two sides who challenged the Dutch in the group stage.
Despite the triumph, Ronald Koeman’s side will need to sharpen their finishing in front of goal if they hope to emulate their manager’s 1988 Euro triumph as players on German soil.
