July 07, (THEWILL) – The Netherlands staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Turkey 2-1 in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals, booking their sixth European Championship semi-final appearance. The match, held in Berlin, saw the Dutch overcome an early deficit to clinch victory in a tense encounter.
Turkey, competing in their third European Championship quarter-final, faced the challenge without key player Merih Demiral, who was serving a two-match ban. Despite this setback, the Turkish side adopted a physical approach, absorbing Dutch pressure in the early stages. Their strategy paid off in the 35th minute when teenage sensation Arda Güler provided a pinpoint cross for Samet Akaydin to head home, giving Turkey their first half-time lead of the tournament.
Ronald Koeman’s half-time talk galvanised the Dutch team, who returned with renewed vigour. Turkey, however, remained dangerous, with Güler striking the woodwork from a long-range free-kick and Kenan Yıldız forcing a challenging save from Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. The Netherlands’ persistence finally bore fruit in the 70th minute when Stefan de Vrij equalised with a powerful header from a cleverly executed short corner.
The Dutch momentum continued, and just six minutes later, they took the lead through an unfortunate Mert Müldür own goal. The Turkish defender inadvertently diverted Denzel Dumfries’ cross into his own net while attempting to beat Cody Gakpo to the ball. Turkey launched a desperate late assault, but the Dutch defence stood firm, with Verbruggen making a crucial save to deny Kerem Akturkoglu in the dying moments.
This hard-fought victory sets up an enticing semi-final clash between the Netherlands and England. For Turkey, the defeat marks the end of an impressive Euro 2024 campaign, which saw them reach the quarter-finals for only the third time in their history.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
