A routine 3-0 victory for the Netherlands against Romania at Euro 2024 was overshadowed hours later by a tenacious Turkish victory over Austria, setting up an enthralling quarterfinal clash in Berlin on Saturday. While the Dutch dominated possession against Romania, Turkey employed a counter-attacking strategy against Austria, allowing them to control the ball and strike when the opportunity presented itself. This clash in Berlin’s Olympiastadion is likely to see more of the same, with both teams showcasing their young talent.
Turkey’s Arda Guler, at just 19 years old, has displayed a maturity beyond his years, exhibiting calmness and skill as he serves as an outlet for his team’s counter-attacks. He provided an assist for the second goal against Austria, showcasing his potential. Similarly, Dutch winger Xavi Simons had a significant impact, creating the opening goal for Cody Gakpo against the Romanians from his position on the right wing.
Although the Dutch appear to be finding their rhythm, Turkish fans in Germany are buzzing with anticipation, dreaming of a repeat of their Euro 2008 success, where they reached the semi-finals. Berlin boasts one of the largest Turkish diasporas globally, and their 2-1 victory over Austria in Leipzig was celebrated with flag-waving fans and cars honking their horns into the early hours. “We’ve got huge following. There’s passion and the love is really visceral back home in Turkey, so I’m very happy to have handed Turks a bit of pride,” said coach Vincenzo Montella, highlighting the significance of their progress.
With single yellow cards being wiped clean after the quarter-finals, Turkey has nine players who must tread carefully as another booking would rule them out of a potential semi-final. The Dutch also have four players in a similar situation. Turkey will be without the suspended Orkun Kokcu and Ismael Yuksek, but they receive a major boost with the return of captain Hakan Calhanoglu, who was banned for the Austria game.
Euro 2008 was also the last time the Dutch reached the quarter-finals, and they are determined to overcome the ignominy of a 3-2 loss to the Austrians that left them third in their group. “We learned our lessons from the Austria game. We had a lot of conversations last week. I think we did very well, especially in the pressing, especially in ball possession,” defender Denzel Dumfries said. The winner of this Saturday’s showdown will advance to the semi-finals, where they will face either England or Switzerland.
This clash promises to be a captivating encounter, with both teams showcasing young talent and seeking to etch their names in Euro 2024 history. The Dutch will be looking to prove their resurgence, while Turkey will strive to recreate the magic of their Euro 2008 campaign, captivating the hearts of their passionate fans in Berlin and beyond.
