Netherlands cruise to victory over Romania to progress into EURO 2024 quarters

The Netherlands defeated a determined Romania team to secure a 3-0 win and a spot in their first UEFA European Championship quarter-final since 2008.

Romania showed great determination right from the start, pressing aggressively, while Ianis Hagi had to wear a head covering due to an early injury.

Dennis Man also displayed skill with a close effort that narrowly missed the target. Despite facing some challenges early on, the Netherlands took the lead after 20 minutes when Cody Gakpo made a brilliant move past Andrei Rațiu and scored past Florin Nita.

This goal boosted Ronald Koeman’s team, and Radu Dragusin had to make a quick block to deny Tijjani Reijnders, while Stefan de Vrij's header from the resulting corner hit the side netting.

Dragusin continued to resist the Dutch pressure, making a strong tackle on Memphis Depay and intercepting Denzel Dumfries’ pass effectively.

Unfortunately, Romania suffered a setback as Vasile Mogos had to leave the field early due to an injury, but both teams missed opportunities to score before halftime.

Reijnders broke through Romania shortly after the restart, only to have his shot blocked by the sprawling figure of Bogdan Racovițan. A superb tackle from Andrei Ratiu and determined defending from Romania denied Depay any chances.

The Oranje were eager for a second goal, but luck was not on their side as Virgil van Dijk's header hit the post and Gakpo's goal was disallowed for offside.

Depay's clever free-kick and Joey Veerman's attempt both narrowly missed, keeping the equalizer within reach for Romania, who showed great resilience.

Gakpo finally broke the deadlock by getting past Dragusin and setting up Donyell Malen for a goal. Malen then went on a brilliant run and finished with precision, securing a comfortable win for the Netherlands in the Euros knockout stage for the first time since 2004.

Romania's journey in the tournament will be remembered with pride, having reached the knockout stage for the first time since 2000. However, they leave the competition after losing two of their last three matches.