Netherlands vs Turkey

Watch Netherlands vs Turkey full match replay and highlight. This is a match of UEFA Euro 2024 Quarter-Finals.
Kick off: 19:00 GMT Saturday Jul 6, 2024.

Referee: Clement Turpin, France.
Venue: Olympiastadion Berlin, Berlin.

Netherlands Overcome Turkey in Dramatic Euro 2024 Quarter-Final

The Netherlands demonstrated great determination to come from a goal down and secure a 2-1 victory over Turkey in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals, earning a place in their sixth European Championship semi-final.

Match Overview

Turkey, missing their last-16 match-winner Merih Demiral due to a two-match ban, faced the Netherlands with a physical and determined approach. Despite being considered underdogs, Turkey defied expectations with an aggressive game plan that paid off in the first half.

First Half

In the 35th minute, teenage talent Arda Güler collected a loose ball from a corner and delivered a perfectly weighted cross for Samet Akaydin, who headed home at the far post. This goal marked Akaydin’s first international goal and gave Turkey a 1-0 lead at halftime, posing a challenge for Dutch coach Ronald Koeman to inspire his team during the break.

Second Half

The Dutch returned with greater intent but faced strong resistance from Turkey, who nearly doubled their lead just before the hour mark. Güler’s ambitious long-range free-kick struck the upright, and Kenan Yıldız forced Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen into an uncomfortable save with a powerful 20-yard strike.

However, the Netherlands equalized in the 70th minute when Stefan de Vrij scored with an emphatic header following a well-executed short corner. With momentum on their side, the Dutch completed the turnaround just six minutes later, thanks to an own goal by Mert Müldür. The Turkish full-back inadvertently diverted the ball into his own net while attempting to intercept Denzel Dumfries’ dangerous cross aimed at Cody Gakpo.

Final Moments

Desperate to keep their Euro dreams alive, Turkey launched an onslaught in the closing stages. The Dutch defense held firm, making crucial blocks, and Verbruggen made an incredible reaction save to deny Semih Kılıçsoy. The Netherlands held on to secure the victory, setting up a semi-final clash with England and ending Turkey’s memorable journey.

Key Takeaways

  • Tactical Resilience: Turkey’s physical and aggressive approach initially paid off, demonstrating their capability to challenge top teams.
  • Dutch Comeback: The Netherlands showcased their determination and tactical adaptability, coming from behind to secure victory.
  • Crucial Substitutions and Adjustments: Koeman’s halftime adjustments and substitutions played a pivotal role in changing the course of the match.

Match Highlights

  • Samet Akaydin’s Opening Goal: A brilliant header that initially gave Turkey the lead.
  • Stefan de Vrij’s Equalizer: A powerful header that brought the Netherlands back into the game.
  • Mert Müldür’s Own Goal: A decisive moment that turned the match in favor of the Dutch.

Looking Ahead

The Netherlands’ victory sets up a highly anticipated semi-final against England, promising an exciting encounter as both teams vie for a spot in the Euro 2024 final.