November 20, (THEWILL) – The Netherlands clinched qualification for Euro 2024 after a 1-0 victory over Ireland on Saturday night. Burnley striker, Wout Weghorst, on loan at Hoffenheim, was once again the hero, scoring the only goal of the game to secure the crucial win.
Weghorst had previously scored the winner when the teams met in Dublin in September, a result which left Ireland facing an uphill battle to qualify. Saturday night’s match saw the Dutch striker repeat the feat with a decisive goal in Amsterdam.
The victory ensured the Netherlands finished second in Group B behind France, who thrashed Gibraltar 14-0. Ireland’s hopes were left in tatters, their dreams of qualifying extinguished months ago after a dismal campaign under manager Stephen Kenny.
The Irish barely threatened the Dutch throughout the match, clearly second-best to a superior opponent. Their slim hopes of reaching the playoffs, via the Nations League, were also ended last week in a 4-2 loss to Slovakia.
After only six wins in 29 competitive games under Kenny, serious questions will be asked about the direction of the Irish team. In contrast, the Netherlands can look forward to the Euros with confidence after booking their place through Weghorst.
