Euro 2024
Austria Stuns Netherlands To Finish Top In Group D
Austria pulled off an upset by defeating the Netherlands 3-2 in Berlin, securing the top spot in Group D for the first time in their history.
For just the second time in their history, Austria qualified from the group stage of a UEFA European Championship.
The game started with Austria taking the initiative, pressing high and causing a constant threat down the left flank.
Alexander Prass was instrumental in setting up the opening goal, with his dangerous cross being deflected into the net by Donyell Malen, giving Austria an early lead.
The high-intensity play continued after the restart but this time it was the Dutch with the early momentum and they also made their opponents pay as Xavi Simons carried the ball up the pitch and picked out Cody Gakpo, who took a touch before curling an inch-perfect finish into the far corner.
Austria capitalized on their opportunities. Romano Schmid’s goal, powered in from a lofted ball by Florian Grillitsch, restored Austria’s lead.
Austria Romano Schmid celebrating his goal against Netherlands
The Netherlands pushed all their players forward in a bid to equalize once more, which they achieved when Memphis Depay scored with 15 minutes remaining. Depay controlled the ball and then volleyed it past Patrick Pentz, setting the stage for an exciting finish.
However, Austria responded emphatically, with Marcel Sabitzer scoring a crucial goal in the 80th minute to put his team back in the lead.
The win also set up a Round of 16 clash against the runners-up of Group F, promising another intense battle for Ralf Rangnick’s men.
Meanwhile, the Netherlands, despite a valiant effort, had to settle for a third-place finish in the group, potentially setting them up for a challenging encounter against England in the knockout stages.
