The Netherlands put on a commanding performance in Munich to defeat Romania 3-0 in their Euro 2024 Round of 16 match, securing a place in the tournament’s quarter-finals for the first time since 2008. The Oranje weathered a period of Romanian pressure before breaking the deadlock through Cody Gakpo’s 20th-minute effort.
Although the Dutch established an early lead, their pursuit of a second goal proved challenging as numerous opportunities went begging. Stefan de Vrij headed into the side netting, Gakpo had a goal disallowed, and Virgil van Dijk nodded the ball against the upright, with Romania seemingly leading a charmed life.
Romania’s good fortune eventually ran out in the 83rd minute when Donyell Malen tapped in from Gakpo’s cutback. The Borussia Dortmund forward grabbed his second in stoppage time, ensuring the Netherlands can now eagerly anticipate a quarter-final appearance at the European Championships after a 16-year wait.
