The Netherlands started their Euro 2024 campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Poland. An early Adam Buksa goal against the run of play put the underdogs in front before Cody Gakpo’s deflected shot drew Oranje level 15 minutes before half-time.
The second half was frustrating for Ronald Koeman’s side but Wout Weghorst’s 81st-minute goal earned all three points.Last Word on Football examines the key talking points from The Netherlands’ Euro 2024 opener.
Key Takeaways as Wout Weghorst Saves the Netherlands Against Poland
Weghorst Saves the Netherlands Once Again
Despite having a collection of chances to take the lead, the Netherlands were struggling to a 1-1 draw with Poland.Koeman’s first two substitutions, Georginio Wijnaldum and Donyell Malen had not had the desired effect. However, the former Barcelona manager had one last trick up his sleeve.
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Wout Weghorst – the man who dragged his country to penalties against Argentina at the World Cup, was introduced in the 81st minute. The former Manchester United striker pounced on Nathan Ake’s deflected cross to score his eleventh international goal. The Hoffenheim striker’s clinical edge means he is in contention to start the June 21 clash with France. Memphis Depay was wasteful against Poland and looked frustrated when taken off.
Gakpo Continues Fine End to the Season
After a difficult March, Gakpo ended the season on a high for Liverpool with goals against Tottenham and Aston Villa. The forward started Euro 2024 determined to continue his form. The 25-year-old was the Netherlands’ main source of attacks on the left.
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The Liverpool forward caused problems when cutting in from the wing and played through Tijjani Reijnders for a chance the AC Milan midfielder should’ve scored. Gakpo will feel like he should’ve scored more than once, but he will have more chances to add to his crucial equaliser as the tournament progresses.
Injury-Hit Midfield Struggles to Dominate
Frankie De Jong’s and Teun Koopmeiners’ injuries have left the Netherlands short in midfield. Koeman tried PSV pairing Joey Veerman and Jerdy Schouten but they struggled to help create much for their team.
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When Rejinders dropped into a deeper role late on the Netherlands improved and found a late winner. Koeman will likely stick with the PSV pair against France, where Oranje will likely have less possession. The Dutch manager will have a decision to make against Austria, where his side will be expected to dominate the ball once again.
