Striker Wout Weghorst’s early goal ensured the Netherlands clinched a berth at Euro 2024 as they beat Ireland 1-0 at the Johan Cruyff Arena on Saturday to finish second in Group B.
Weghorst broke free from just inside the Irish half and, despite options to his left, decided to steam straight towards goal and strike a rasping effort that crashed into the roof of the net after 12 minutes.
The win took the Dutch to 15 points, six behind group winners France who have a 100% record after their seven group matches but out of the reach of Greece in third place.
Ronald Koeman’s team finish their campaign on Tuesday away to Gibraltar who were thrashed 14-0 by France in Nice on Saturday.
#EURO2024, ! #NothingLikeOranje #CreateHistory pic.twitter.com/NViXEvrLg6— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) November 18, 2023
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The injury-plagued Dutch, without many of their regulars, outplayed the Irish for most of the game and created several half chances but were unable to add to their lead, despite the best efforts of an attack led by Cody Gakpo.
Tijani Reijnders had his 52nd minute shot deflected onto the upright by goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu and there were some brave blocks from defenders to deny several Dutch shots at goal.
Ireland thought they had equalised when substitute Adam Idah’s shot spilt through keeper Bart Verbruggen’s hands with goal line technology confirming it had crossed the line in the 65th but VAR found Idah was offside when he received the ball.
It was the only moment of excitement for the travelling support as the Irish, who finished on six points after six defeats in eight matches, rarely conjured up any chances.
“In the end, it’s about winning the game. We knew we needed the three points to qualify directly today, at home with our own fans,” said Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo.
“We created a lot of chances, opportunities, but we have to score more goals and have more finesse in the final third.”
It is expected to be the last competitive outing for manager Stephen Kenny, with Ireland playing a friendly against New Zealand in Dublin on Tuesday.
(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed - Reuters)