In an interesting encounter, substitute Donyell Malen scored twice and Cody Gakpo netted his third goal of Euro 2024, propelling the Netherlands to a spirited victory over Romania and into their first quarter-final in 16 years.
Liverpool forward Gakpo opened the scoring midway through the first half with a brilliant strike, cutting inside and driving the ball into the bottom corner.
Despite squandering several chances, the Netherlands secured their win when substitute Malen poked in a late goal from Gakpo’s pass.
Malen then sealed the impressive victory, capitalizing on Romania’s forward push by charging towards the goal and slotting home.
The Netherlands delivered a much-improved performance, overcoming early pressure from a determined Romania, buoyed by their passionate and colorful fans.
Romania’s early pressing forced mistakes from the Dutch, giving them a scare when Dennis Man’s shot narrowly missed the target.
However, Gakpo’s goal shifted the game’s momentum, and the Netherlands nearly extended their lead before halftime, though Xavi Simons missed a clear chance.
Romania came out fighting in the second half, but the Netherlands continued to create better opportunities. Memphis Depay missed from close range, Virgil van Dijk hit the post with a header, and Gakpo’s driving run ended with a shot that was pushed behind.
Malen, who came on at halftime, scored twice in the final 10 minutes to prevent any late drama. The Netherlands can now look forward to facing either Turkey or a rematch with their group opponents Austria in the last eight.
