Austria defied expectations and secured the top spot in Euro 2024 Group D with a pulsating 3-2 victory over the Netherlands in a thrilling encounter at Berlin’s Olympiastadion. Despite progressing to the knockout stages, the Dutch were left stunned after surrendering first place with a second-half capitulation.
Austria’s aggressive tactics paid immediate dividends. Just six minutes into the game, Donyell Malen, attempting to cut out a cross, turned the ball into his net, gifting Austria a dream start. The Dutch response was sluggish, and Austria continued to threaten on the counter-attack.
The second half saw a shift in momentum. The Netherlands emerged with renewed purpose, and Cody Gakpo restored parity shortly after the break. The game transformed into a tense midfield battle, with both sides trading blows. Just before the hour mark, Romano Schmid put Austria back in front with a glancing header that found the net via a deflection off Stefan de Vrij.
Memphis Depay, introduced as a substitute, injected life into the Dutch attack. His 75th-minute equalizer rekindled Oranje’s hopes. However, Austria refused to relinquish control. With ten minutes remaining, Marcel Sabitzer rose, hammering the ball past the despairing Netherlands goalkeeper to secure a famous victory.
“We didn’t get around to playing football,” rued Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo after the match. Austria’s high-pressing approach had undoubtedly stifled the Dutch, forcing them into uncharacteristic errors. Manager Ralf Rangnick’s tactical nous was evident throughout, and his players displayed remarkable resilience in a see-sawing encounter.
This result throws the knockout stages wide open. Having lost their opening game against France, Austria will approach the next round with renewed confidence. Their fighting spirit and ability to grind results bode well for their Euro 2024 ambitions.
Questions will linger for the Netherlands. Despite boasting a plethora of attacking talent, they were unable to consistently break down a resolute Austrian defense. Their pedestrian first-half display ultimately cost them the top spot in the group.
In the group’s other game, Poland held France to a 1-1 draw. Kylian Mbappe opened his Euro 2024 account from the penalty spot, but Les Bleus could not find a winner. This result means they finish second in the group and face an uncertain path in the knockout stages.
With Austria topping the group, they now await the runners-up from Group E. Netherlands, meanwhile, can consider themselves fortunate to progress as one of the four best third-placed teams. Their Euro 2024 journey continues, but they face a far more challenging test in the next round, having surrendered the top spot in such dramatic fashion.
