Austria produced a hugely impressive performance that will make others take notice at Euro 2024 as they beat the Netherlands to progress to the last 16 as Group D winners.
Despite being handed a tough draw with the Dutch and France, Ralf Rangnick’s side won two of their three games to finish top of the standings.
The Netherlands had already guaranteed their progression to the last 16 but they will now go through as one of the best third-placed sides, with France second.
This was a fully deserved win for Austria as they played with spirit and desire throughout, and showed great determination to respond to a fast start to the second-half by the Netherlands as Marcel Sabitzer's strike secured the victory.
The Austrians had been gifted a sixth-minute lead when Donyell Malen turned home Alexander Prass’s dangerous cross.
And, although Malen had a chance at redemption but scuffed his shot, Austria took control as the Netherlands struggled to get a touch of the ball at times.
Rangnick’s side had chances to add to their lead through Sabitzer and Marko Arnautovic, but the Netherlands were level just 75 seconds into the second half.
The Dutch came out fighting in the second half and equalised when Cody Gakpo curled in a great finish.
That prompted a shift in tempo and Austria were holding on as Virgil van Dijk’s header deflected over the bar.
But Austria weathered the storm and retook the lead through Romano Schmid’s powerful header, which the unfortunate Stefan de Vrij could only help over the line.
Memphis Depay thought he had earned the Dutch a draw when his close-range volley survived a check for handball by the video assistant referee, but Sabitzer had the final say when he broke through and drove into the roof of the net to send the Austrian fans wild.
Latest Stories
-
Time to impose strict debt ceiling to curb Ghana’s ever rising debt:– Prof Peter Quartey
4 hours -
Ghana’s Rising Debt: It’s difficult to justify that we borrowed for sustainable development – Prof Peter Quartey
4 hours -
#GPL 2024/25: Hearts stumble in title race as Dreams snatch shock win
5 hours -
Brentford beat Bournemouth for fifth straight away win
5 hours -
Man City drop points at home against Brighton
5 hours -
Mbappe double sparks Madrid comeback win over Villarreal
5 hours -
Capt. Georgina Jopap grabs maiden Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings Legacy Award
6 hours -
Coalition of Anti-Galamsey Executives urges action on galamsey, demands probe into politically linked miners
6 hours -
We can only wish Dampare well and appreciate his services – Felix Kwakye Ofosu
6 hours -
Proper oral hygiene impacts overall well-being – Dr. Louisa Satekla
7 hours -
Ken Ofori-Atta sues OSP for declaring him wanted
7 hours -
CRS donates 20 modified motor-tricycles ambulances to improve emergency healthcare
7 hours -
Ejura Traditional Council offers financial support to Assembly members to combat crime
7 hours -
GPL 2024/25: Young Apostles defeat Accra Lions to deepen relegation woes
7 hours -
GPL 2024/25: Asante Kotoko drop points after draw with Samartex
8 hours