World number seven Netherlands’ meeting with Poland, which is 28th in the Fifa world rankings, was heading for 1-1. But a certain Wout Weghorst ensured victory for the orange.
It all started well for the Netherlands. In the 16th minute, Poland took the lead.
Adam Buksa, who replaced the injured Robert Lewandowski (missed the premiere) and Arek Milik (returned before the championship) together with Sebastian Szymanski, headed in a corner. Buksa can be considered a doldis in the EC context. Last season he was loaned from French Lens to Turkish Antalyaspor.
Answered quickly
But the Netherlands came back. In the 29th minute, Gakpo pushed from outside the penalty area, whereupon the shot caught a Pole and slid in behind Szczęsny.
Just over ten minutes into the second act, the Netherlands countered against Poland, whereupon Xavi Simons found himself in the box. But Jakub Kiwior played sacrifice and covered the finish.
Shortly thereafter, Kiwior tested his luck in the Netherlands’ penalty area. The shot was deflected, but Bart Verbruggen managed to save.
Decided – with the first touch of the ball
With less than ten minutes left, Wout Weghorst made it 2-1 for the Netherlands. The forward put in the effort after entering the field just two minutes earlier. Tocuhen was the Burnley striker’s first of the match. He stepped in for Memphis Depay.
The match ended 2-1, although Poland had bids for an equalizer after Weghorst’s goal.
The Netherlands face France in the next round, while Poland face Austria.