September 10, (THEWILL) – The Netherlands had to come from behind to secure a 2-1 victory over Ireland in their UEFA Nations League clash on Sunday.
Ireland took a shock lead in just the fourth minute when James McClean’s corner was handled by Virgil van Dijk, allowing Adam Idah to convert the resulting penalty. However, the Dutch were soon back on level terms thanks to a spot-kick of their own in the 19th minute.
Sustained Dutch pressure saw Cody Gakpo play a perfect pass to release Denzel Dumfries, who was brought down by Gavin Bazunu as he looked to round the keeper. Gakpo calmly converted the penalty to make it 1-1.
The winner came midway through the second half and was a superb team goal finished off by Wout Weghorst. Frenkie De Jong lofted a delightful ball over the defence and Dumfries headed it square for Weghorst to guide home the first time.
The victory keeps the Netherlands competitive in Group A1 behind France, while Ireland has now lost four of their five matches. The result provides a boost for the Dutch ahead of their next game, a tough fixture against France in October. Ireland’s Nations League struggles continue as they continue to search for their first win since June.
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.
