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In the knockout round of the European Championship on July 3, Beijing time, the Dutch team defeated Romania with a score of 3-0 and successfully advanced to the next round. In this game, the Dutch team's tactical set-up and player performance were eye-catching, fully demonstrating their ability to compete for the title. The crucial development of the game began in the 20th minute of the first half, when Gakpo opened the scoring for the Netherlands by cutting inside on the left and slotting home a 1-0 lead.
Steadily, the Netherlands extended their gains
Heading into the second half, the Dutch team continued to play steadily, and although they missed many good chances, the players were not discouraged. Finally, in the 83rd minute, through Gakpo's assist, Mullen pushed and scored to extend the score to 2-0. The Dutch goal not only further cemented their lead, but also showed their patience and determination in attack.
Sealed the win, the Netherlands beat Romania
In stoppage time, Malen came back to the punch and scored the game-winning goal for the Netherlands with a volley from his own breakaway to make it 3-0. This game was not only a victory for the Dutch team, but also an important breakthrough for them in this European Championship, breaking the conservative impression left by the outside world in the group stage.
The Dutch team was tactically flexible and the players performed well
From a tactical point of view, the starting line-up of the Dutch team is quite interesting. Depay, Bergwijn and Gakpo form a frontcourt trident with strong attacking power, while Xavi Simons, the core of the midfield, is responsible for the organization. At the back, Virgil van Dijk and De Vrij are also a solid centre-back pairing. In the game, the Dutch were particularly adept at exploiting gaps in the Romanian defence, creating attacking opportunities through quick in-depth cuts and precise crosses.
Although the Dutch missed a number of good chances in the first half, they did not panic and continued to keep the pressure on the Romanian defence. That sustained pressure eventually translated into a goal, showing the Dutch's patience and efficiency in attack.
In terms of substitutions, the Dutch team also showed a superb strategy. Mullen was extremely active after replacing Bergwijn in the second half, being directly involved in the Netherlands' last two goals and becoming the key man of the game.
Romania defended poorly and lost control in midfield
In contrast, Romania looked too weak in this game. They tactically failed to press effectively in the high post, and their defence was full of holes, and the Dutch team took a number of chances. In terms of key players, Draculas lacked effective support as a lone arrow, and the midfield combination of Stanciu and R-Marin was unable to control the situation, resulting in Romania being beaten passively throughout the game.
In the face of the Dutch's fast break-through and precise wide penetration, Romania's defence looked stretched and unable to form an effective defence. This also reflects the advantages of the Dutch team in terms of offensive tactics and individual abilities of the players.
The Dutch team showed its strength to compete for the title and became the highlight of the knockout round
After this game, the Dutch team undoubtedly showed the outside world their strength to compete for the title. Not only did they win the scoreline, but they also showed a high level of tactical set-up and player performance. The victory also allowed the Dutch to avoid the traditional powerhouses, and the road to qualification was strategic. They are therefore regarded as a potential "big dark horse" in this European Cup.
Gakpo and Mullen have undoubtedly breathed new life into the Dutch attack. Their wonderful performance not only boosted the team's morale and confidence, but also added more highlights to the upcoming games. It is foreseeable that as the competition progresses, the Dutch team is expected to be a strong force in this European Championship.