The Netherlands produced a stunning second-half performance to complete a dramatic Euro 2024 quarter-final comeback against Turkey
In a high-octane first half of the Euro 2024 quarter-final, Turkey led the Netherlands 1-0, thanks to a brilliant header by Samet Akaydin. The match, played at a buzzing Olympiastadion in Berlin, delivered a thrilling contest full of action and drama.
The Netherlands started brightly, with Memphis Depay creating an early chance in the first minute, but his shot sailed over the bar. Despite their initial dominance, the Dutch struggled to find a way past Turkey’s solid defense. Turkey, on the other hand, showed their intent by pressing high and launching quick counter-attacks.
Turkey’s breakthrough came in the 35th minute. Arda Güler delivered a stunning outswinging cross from the edge of the penalty box, finding Akaydin, who rose highest to head the ball off the crossbar and into the net. This goal showcased Güler’s exceptional playmaking skills and Akaydin’s aerial prowess.
The Netherlands pushed hard for an equalizer but were met with stiff resistance. Cody Gakpo and Steven Bergwijn had opportunities to break through but were thwarted by Turkey’s disciplined defense. Gakpo’s efforts down the right flank were notable, though he often found himself stifled by offside calls or failed to connect with his teammates in the box.
As the half progressed, Turkey grew in confidence, controlling the tempo and creating more chances. Hakan Calhanoglu and Baris Alper Yilmaz were instrumental in Turkey’s midfield, frequently troubling the Dutch defense with their passing and movement.
Defensively, Turkey was robust. Samet Akaydin, despite picking up a knock, continued to marshal the backline effectively. Their ability to clear dangerous crosses and intercept Dutch passes was crucial in maintaining their lead.
At halftime, the score remains 1-0 in favor of Turkey. The Netherlands will need to find more creativity and precision if they are to overturn this deficit in the second half.
In an electrifying second half, the Netherlands battled back from a goal down to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory over Turkey in a closely contested encounter.
The action resumed with the Netherlands immediately pressing for an equalizer. Memphis Depay’s influence grew, and he was pivotal in the 70th minute, delivering a sublime lofted pass that found Stefan de Vrij, who smashed the ball into the roof of the net to level the score at 1-1.
Turkey had their chances to reclaim the lead. Bertug Yildirim was controversially shown a red card in the 47th minute despite being on the bench, causing confusion and frustration on the Turkish side. Their frustrations grew in the 90+6th minute when substitute Cenk Tosun was booked for dissent following a denied penalty appeal.
As the match approached its climax, the Netherlands capitalized on Turkey’s defensive lapses. A devastating own goal by Mert Muldur in the 76th minute turned the game on its head. Attempting to clear a cross, Muldur inadvertently directed the ball into his own net, giving the Netherlands a crucial 2-1 lead.
Despite their best efforts, including a stunning save by Bart Verbruggen to deny Semih Kilicsoy in stoppage time, Turkey couldn’t find an equalizer. The match ended with a flurry of activity, including a bizarre yellow card for Turkey’s coach Vincenzo Montella and another for Hakan Calhanoglu as tensions boiled over.
The Netherlands managed to hold on through a frantic final few minutes, securing a hard-fought victory that underscored their resilience and tactical discipline. Turkey, despite their valiant efforts, were left to rue missed opportunities and defensive mishaps in a gripping contest.
The Netherlands will battle England for a place in the final, where they could face either France or Spain.
