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Much-improved Netherlands beats Romania 3-0 to reach first Euros quarterfinal in 16 years

Jul 2, 2024 | 10:59 AM

MUNICH (AP) — The Netherlands reached its first European Championship quarterfinal in 16 years with a 3-0 win over Romania on Tuesday.

Cody Gakpo broke the deadlock in the 20th minute and Donyell Malen scored two late goals to send the Dutch to their first quarterfinal in the tournament since 2008.

The Dutch had missed a plethora of earlier opportunities to add to the early lead and captain Virgil van Dijk also hit the woodwork. It was nevertheless a much-improved display compared to its disappointing group stage performance, which ended in a 3-2 loss to Austria.

The Netherlands might have an immediate chance for revenge as there could be a quick rematch in Berlin on Saturday if Austria beats Turkey in the final round of 16 match later Tuesday.