The Netherlands came from behind to defeat Turkey and secure a semi-final match against England at Euro 2024.
An own goal by Mert Muldur, who bundled the ball over his own goal line under pressure from Cody Gakpo, allowed the Dutch to equalize after trailing at halftime.
Turkey’s centre-back Samet Akaydin had deservedly put his team ahead by heading in Arda Guler’s delicate cross, capping an impressive first-half display. Akaydin celebrated by running over to the Turkey fans, kissing the badge on his shirt, and kneeling down to pray in front of them, while substitutes sprinted down the touchline.
However, their celebrations were short-lived as the Netherlands, despite a poor first half, responded after the break, energized by substitute Wout Weghorst.
The Dutch found an equalizer through Stefan de Vrij’s header, just moments after Weghorst made a crucial interception inside his own box to prevent Turkey’s Kaan Ayhan from capitalizing on a rebound.
Turkey nearly doubled their lead when Real Madrid’s Guler bent a brilliant free-kick onto the post but failed to take advantage of their opportunities.
As a result, Ronald Koeman’s side will now face England in Dortmund on Wednesday (20:00 BST) after Gareth Southgate’s team beat Switzerland on penalties. The winner will advance to the final against either France or Spain.
Weghorst makes difference for Dutch
Pressure had been mounting on the Netherlands before their impressive 3-0 win over Romania in the last 16, but their first-half performance against Turkey reverted to their old ways.
Passive, predictable, and vulnerable, they struggled to handle Turkey’s counter-attacks and failed to create enough chances at the other end.
With Turkey backed by vociferous support in Berlin, whistling during every spell of Netherlands possession and outsinging the usually vibrant Oranje supporters, an immediate change was needed.
Koeman did not hesitate, making a decisive move by substituting Steven Bergwijn at halftime and introducing Weghorst.
The striker had an immediate impact, causing problems with his height in the box, intelligent runs, and defensive work rate.
After taking the lead, the Netherlands had to endure a challenging period as Turkey pressed for an equalizer that never came.
Goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen made an excellent save to deny Kerem Akturkoglu late on, while De Vrij made crucial blocks inside the area.
Unused substitute Bertug Yildirim was sent off for something he said to the officials, and moments later, Netherlands players fell to their knees with relief at the full-time whistle. The tournament’s joint-top scorer, Gakpo, collapsed to the floor in celebration.
However, it was Weghorst who received the bulk of admiration from supporters for his inspired second-half performance, which made all the difference.
Turkey miss chance to reach semis
It is a disappointing end to what has been a brilliant tournament for Turkey.
Overcoming Austria in the last 16 was no small feat, and Turkey posed a significant threat to a European favorite here in Berlin.
Akaydin’s opener crowned a perfect first-half performance for Turkey as they wore down the Netherlands, blocking shots on target and posing a constant threat on the break.
Apart from a few glimpses of goal from Gakpo and Memphis Depay, the Netherlands offered very little until Weghorst’s introduction.
Baris Alper Yilmaz’s runs in behind tested Denzel Dumfries, while Güler’s trickery and intelligence kept Virgil van Dijk on his toes.
Ultimately, Turkey paid for their lack of ruthlessness, with the Netherlands finding a higher gear while Turkey’s response came too late in the second half.
Turkey put up a strong fight and can be pleased with their performances throughout the tournament, but this was a missed opportunity to reach a third European Championship semi-final.
Player of the match: A. Güler
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