The Netherlands secured their place in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals with a commanding 3-0 victory over Romania in their Round of 16 match on Tuesday.
The Dutch side showcased their prowess, with Donyell Malen's double and Cody Gakpo's opener propelling them to their first Euros quarterfinal since 2008.
The match began with the Netherlands on the front foot, pushing Romania back from the start. Despite Romania's early chance, a long-range effort that flew over the crossbar, the Dutch quickly asserted control. Cody Gakpo broke the deadlock in the 26th minute, receiving the ball inside the box and unleashing a powerful shot past Romania's goalkeeper, Florin Nita.
Buoyed by the opening goal, the Netherlands continued to press Romania, creating multiple opportunities. De Vrij's header from a cross went wide, while Xavi Simons and Tijjani Reijnders had their attempts blocked by the Romanian defense. Romania, on their part, struggled to capitalize on their few counter-attacks, and the first half ended with the Netherlands leading 1-0.
The second half saw the Netherlands maintain their dominance. Romania's efforts to equalize were thwarted by a resolute Dutch defense and a disallowed goal for offside kept the scoreline unchanged. The breakthrough came in the 73rd minute when Gakpo, again the orchestrator, teed up Donyell Malen for an easy tap-in, doubling the lead for the Netherlands.
Romania's coach Edward Iordanescu made tactical changes to spark a comeback, but the Dutch were relentless. In the dying moments of the match, Malen sealed the victory with a fine individual effort, securing his brace and cementing the Netherlands' 3-0 win.
This triumph for the Netherlands sets up an intriguing quarterfinal clash against either Turkey.
Coach Ronald Koeman's tactical adjustments, including the introduction of Xavi Simons, Denzel Dumfries, and Steven Bergwijn into the starting lineup, paid off handsomely.
For Romania, despite a spirited performance, the tournament ends in disappointment.