Netherlands vs Austria – June 25, 2024 | Austria secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Netherlands, clinching the top position in UEFA EURO 2024 Group D. The match, held in Berlin, was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams showcasing their prowess. Despite the loss, the Netherlands also advanced to the round of 16.
Match Summary | Netherlands vs Austria
- Venue:ย Olympiastadion Berlin, Berlin
- Result:ย Netherlands 2 – 3 Austria
Key Moments
- 6′ – Malen turns into his own net.
- 47′ – Gakpo bends in a fine equalizer.
- 59′ – Schmid heads the 900th EURO goal.
- 75′ – Depay draws the Dutch level again.
- 80′ – Sabitzer blasts past Verbruggen.
Game Statistics | Netherlands vs Austria
Netherlands:
- Yellow Cards: 0
- Shots On Target: 2
- Ball Possession: 51%
- Goals Scored: 2
Austria:
- Yellow Cards: 3
- Shots On Target: 5
- Ball Possession: 49%
- Goals Scored: 3
Standings
- Netherlands: 2nd in Group D
- Austria: 1st in Group D
Match in Brief | Netherlands vs Austria
Austria Edge Five-Goal Thriller
Ralf Rangnick’s call for intensity was evident from the start. Austriaโs opening goal, though fortunate, came from a powerful cross-shot by Alexander Prass that Donyell Malen inadvertently turned into his own net. Austria’s aggressive start paid off, setting the tone for a dramatic encounter.
The Netherlands struggled initially, completing only two passes before conceding the first goal. Despite this shaky start, they found some rhythm, with Tijjani Reijnders and Malen missing key opportunities. Ronald Koeman’s tactical adjustment, substituting Joey Veerman for Xavi Simons at the 35-minute mark, highlighted the Dutch efforts to regain control.
Austria continued to press, with Bart Verbruggen making crucial saves against Marcel Sabitzer and Marko Arnautoviฤ. The Dutch came close to equalizing just before halftime with Memphis Depay’s header.
Two minutes into the second half, the Netherlands leveled the score. Xavi Simons surged forward and set up Cody Gakpo, who expertly found the far corner of the net. Austria, however, reclaimed the lead before the hour mark, with Romano Schmid scoring the 900th goal in EURO tournament history with a powerful header from Florian Grillitsch’s cross.
The Dutch fought back once more, with Wout Weghorst, who came off the bench in the 72nd minute, assisting Memphis Depay for the equalizer in the 75th minute. The goal stood after a VAR check for handball.
Austria responded swiftly. Marcel Sabitzer, after receiving a neat pass from Christoph Baumgartner, blasted the ball past Verbruggen, securing the win. Despite a late effort from Weghorst, Austria held on for a memorable victory.
Vivo Player of the Match: Marcel Sabitzer (Austria)
Marcel Sabitzer was instrumental in Austriaโs victory, impacting all phases of the game. He posed a constant threat in possession, expertly navigating spaces between the lines and challenging the Dutch defense with his incisive movements. Defensively, Sabitzer worked tirelessly, and his winning goal epitomized his significant contribution.
Key Stats
- Austria’s Milestone: This victory marks Austria’s progression to the knockout stage for the second consecutive EURO, a feat first achieved in EURO 2020.
- Historic Goal: Romano Schmid’s goal was the 900th in EURO final tournament history, following Michael Gregoritsch’s 700th at EURO 2020.
- Dutch Defeat: This loss ended the Netherlands’ 12-match unbeaten streak in major tournament group stage games, dating back to the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
- Fastest Goal: Austria’s opening goal was their fastest ever at a EURO, surpassing Gernot Trauner’s ninth-minute goal against Poland on Matchday 2.
- Victory After Long Wait: Austriaโs previous victory over the Netherlands occurred in a friendly match in Vienna on May 30, 1990.
- Young Talent: Leopold Querfeld became the youngest Austrian player to appear at a EURO, at 20 years and 353 days.
Starting Line-ups
Netherlands: Verbruggen; Geertruida, De Vrij, Van Dijk, Akรฉ (Van de Ven 65); Reijnders (Wijnaldum 65), Schouten, Veerman (Simons 35); Malen (Weghorst 72), Depay, Gakpo
Austria: Pentz; Posch, Wรถber, Lienhart (Querfeld 62), Prass; Seiwald, Grillitsch (Laimer 62); Wimmer (Baumgartner 62), Sabitzer, Schmid (Weimann 90+2); Arnautoviฤ (Gregoritsch 78)
Detailed Analysis: Netherlands vs Austria
The Netherlands vs Austria match was a spectacular display of football, filled with high-paced action and dramatic turns. This encounter had fans at the edge of their seats, with both teams demonstrating their capabilities and determination to secure a top spot in Group D.
First Half: Early Setback for the Netherlands
The match began with an unexpected twist as the Netherlands fell behind due to an own goal by Donyell Malen in the 6th minute. This early setback was a blow to the Dutch side, which struggled to find its footing in the opening minutes. Austria capitalized on this momentum, pressing high and creating several opportunities.
The Dutch managed to stabilize somewhat after the initial shock. Ronald Koemanโs decision to substitute Joey Veerman for Xavi Simons was a crucial tactical move aimed at gaining better control of the midfield. However, despite some promising plays, the Netherlands were unable to convert their chances, with both Reijnders and Malen failing to find the net.
Bart Verbruggen, the Dutch goalkeeper, was tested multiple times but managed to keep his team in the game with critical saves against Sabitzer and Arnautoviฤ. As halftime approached, Memphis Depay’s close header almost equalized the score, indicating the Dutch were far from giving up.
Second Half: A Flurry of Goals
The second half kicked off with renewed vigor from the Netherlands. Just two minutes in, Xavi Simons orchestrated a brilliant attack, setting up Cody Gakpo for a sublime finish to equalize the score. This goal reignited the Dutch hopes and showcased their attacking potential.
Austria, undeterred by the setback, quickly regained their composure and struck back in the 59th minute. Romano Schmid’s header, marking the 900th goal in EURO final tournament history, put Austria back in the lead. This back-and-forth scoring highlighted the competitive nature of the match, with both teams unwilling to back down.
Ronald Koemanโs strategic substitutions played a pivotal role in the Netherlandsโ second equalizer. Wout Weghorst, brought on in the 72nd minute, made an immediate impact by assisting Memphis Depay for his second goal in the 75th minute. The VAR check added a layer of suspense, but the goal stood, bringing the score to 2-2.
The Decisive Moment: Sabitzer’s Winner
The climax of the match came in the 80th minute when Marcel Sabitzer scored the winning goal for Austria. His powerful shot past Verbruggen, following a precise pass from Christoph Baumgartner, sealed the victory. Sabitzerโs goal was not just a display of individual brilliance but also a testament to Austriaโs cohesive team play.
Despite the Netherlands’ efforts to equalize once more, including a near-miss from Weghorst, Austria held firm to secure their top spot in Group D. This victory was a significant achievement for Austria, reflecting their growth and resilience under Ralf Rangnickโs leadership.
Tactical Insights: Netherlands vs Austria
The Netherlands vs Austria match was a tactical battle that showcased the strategic acumen of both managers. Ronald Koemanโs decision to introduce Xavi Simons early in the game was aimed at bolstering the midfield, while Ralf Rangnickโs emphasis on intensity and pressing paid dividends for Austria.
Austriaโs defensive organization and quick transitions were key to their success. They effectively nullified the Dutch attacks and capitalized on their opportunities with clinical finishing. Marcel Sabitzerโs performance was a standout, as he balanced his defensive duties with offensive contributions, ultimately scoring the decisive goal.
On the other hand, the Netherlands displayed their attacking potential but were let down by lapses in defense and missed chances. The substitution of Wout Weghorst added a new dimension to their attack, but it was not enough to secure a win.
Post-Match Reactions: Netherlands vs Austria
The post-match reactions from both camps reflected the contrasting emotions. Ralf Rangnick praised his teamโs resilience and tactical execution, highlighting the significance of topping the group. He lauded Marcel Sabitzer for his match-winning performance and emphasized the importance of maintaining this level of intensity in the knockout stages.
Ronald Koeman, while disappointed with the result, acknowledged the fighting spirit of his team. He pointed out the need to address defensive weaknesses and improve finishing in the upcoming matches. Koeman expressed confidence in the Netherlandsโ ability to bounce back and perform strongly in the round of 16.
Looking Ahead: Implications for the Knockout Stage
The outcome of the Netherlands vs Austria match has significant implications for both teams as they advance to the knockout stage of UEFA EURO 2024. Austriaโs victory not only secured them the top spot in Group D but also boosted their confidence as they prepare to face tougher opponents.
For the Netherlands, the defeat serves as a wake-up call. While they progress to the round of 16, the match highlighted areas that need improvement. Ronald Koeman and his squad will need to regroup, analyze their performance, and make necessary adjustments to enhance their chances of success in the knockout rounds.
Conclusion: A Match to Remember
The Netherlands vs Austria match on June 25, 2024, was a thrilling spectacle that will be remembered for its intensity and drama. Austriaโs 3-2 victory, marked by Sabitzerโs decisive goal, showcased their tactical prowess and resilience. The Netherlands, despite the loss, demonstrated their fighting spirit and potential to compete at the highest level.
As both teams move forward in UEFA EURO 2024, fans can expect more exciting encounters. The lessons learned from this match will undoubtedly shape their strategies and performances in the quest for European glory. The Netherlands vs Austria clash was a true testament to the unpredictable and captivating nature of football at its best.
