Donyell Malen got the chance from the start for the first time in the EC. Then the Dutchman got off to a nightmare start to the match, when he conceded 1-0 to Austria after five minutes.
25-year-old Malen had the chance to take revenge barely 20 minutes later, but the striker instead missed his free-kick.
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The Netherlands would certainly have reason to celebrate during the start of the second half. After a quick transition, Xavi Simons was able to play through to Cody Gakpo, who nicely placed the equaliser.
But the joy did not last long, as Austria was able to regain the lead through Romano Schmid.
The attacking midfielder headed in 2-1 through Stefan de Vrij’s leg in the 59th minute.
Crazy ending
With a quarter left to play, the game swung back and forth several times. Memphis Depay received the ball in the penalty area before neatly slotting in to make it 2-2.
The goal was reviewed by VAR for a few minutes, before it was finally approved. Again Austria was able to take the lead in the match and this time through Marcel Sabitzer.
– I fight for the team and want to contribute with goals. When you also win, of course it feels good, says Sabitzer, who was also named player of the match.
The goal was match-deciding and thus Austria takes home Group D, as France at the same time drew against Poland.
SVT Sports expert Daniel Nannskog pays tribute to the sensational group winner.
– It is so wonderful to see how they fill up one after the other. How timed their pressing game is. So wow! It is impressive, says Nannskog.
In the round of 16, Austria will face the runners-up from Group F (Turkey, Czech Republic or Georgia).
European Championship
Netherlands.
2 – 3
Austria