Netherlands vs. Turkey: Hard-fought Comeback at EURO 2024 Quarter-finals

 

The Netherlands booked their place in the Euro 2024 semi-finals with a hard-fought 2-1 comeback victory over a spirited Turkey side at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Saturday.

Turkey Take Surprise Lead

Turkey took a surprise lead in the 35th minute when teenager Arda Güler's pinpoint cross was headed home by Samet Akaydin. The underdogs rode waves of passionate support to keep the Dutch at bay for much of the game.

Netherlands Equalize and Complete Comeback

However, the Netherlands levelled in the 70th minute through an unmarked header by Stefan de Vrij after Memphis Depay's cross. With the game seemingly heading for extra time, an own goal by Mert Müldür in the 76th minute, under pressure from Cody Gakpo, completed the Dutch comeback.

Gakpo Denied Goal but Forces Winning Effort

Gakpo, who scored six goals in the tournament, was denied the goal but his run and pressure forced the error. The Netherlands, who had 18 shots to Turkey's 7, deserved the win despite a poor first-half display.

Reaction from Coaches and Players

"We knew it was going to be tough, so I'm really pleased that we made it through," Dutch coach Ronald Koeman said. "It's a win not only because we were probably the better side, but also because we showed fight and we did not give up."

Turkey, who had reached their first Euro quarter-final since 2008, were left heartbroken. "We are very sad. It's hard to find words right now. We are all emotional," Turkey midfielder Salih Ozcan said. "We want to thank our fans, the amazing support we got. They carried us from match to match."

The Netherlands will face England in the semi-finals in Dortmund on Wednesday. France take on Spain in the other last-four clash on Tuesday.

The Bad Tackle

Turkey gave the Dutch side a good scare and something to think about moving forward. They did what they could with the resources available and put up a decent showing at EURO 2024. Lessons learned for future tournaments.

Netherlands are indeed peaking at the right time. The should hope to get even better if they are to get past the Three Lions blocking their path to the finals.