The first half of the Euro 2024 match between the Netherlands and Türkiye began with high expectations from both sides, but it quickly became apparent that precision was lacking. In the opening minute, Memphis Depay of the Netherlands had an opportunity to set the tone, but his right-footed shot from the center of the box went high and wide to the right, signaling the beginning of a series of missed attempts. Just a minute later, Türkiye’s Baris Alper Yilmaz found himself caught offside, halting what could have been an early advantage for his team.
As the game progressed, the Dutch seemed eager to capitalize on their offensive strategies, but offside calls and blocked attempts hindered their progress. Memphis Depay’s left-footed shot in the 6th minute, blocked by the Turkish defense, was a prime example of the Netherlands’ struggle to break through. Similarly, Cody Gakpo’s offside in the 7th minute further illustrated the team’s lack of precision in the early stages.
Physical Play and Tactical Fouls
The first half was not just marked by missed attempts but also by numerous fouls and physical play from both sides. The Netherlands’ Stefan de Vrij won a free kick in the defensive half after a foul by Türkiye’s Kenan Yildiz in the 7th minute, demonstrating the physical nature of the contest. Just a minute later, Xavi Simons of the Netherlands committed a foul, giving Türkiye’s Hakan Çalhanoglu a chance to reset play with a free kick.
The intensity continued with a series of fouls that disrupted the flow of the game. Notably, Xavi Simons received a yellow card in the 30th minute for a bad foul, highlighting the aggressive tactics employed by both teams. This physicality often led to delays in the match, as seen with the injury to Mert Müldür of Türkiye in the 31st minute, which briefly paused the game.
Türkiye’s Breakthrough and Dutch Struggles
Despite the Netherlands’ efforts, it was Türkiye that managed to find the back of the net first. The breakthrough came in the 35th minute when Samet Akaydin scored with a header from the left side of the six-yard box, assisted by Arda Güler following a well-placed corner. This goal put Türkiye in the lead and highlighted their effective use of set-piece situations.
The Dutch tried to respond but continued to face difficulties. Steven Bergwijn’s right-footed shot in the 42nd minute missed the target, adding to the series of failed attempts by the Netherlands. Offside calls against Cody Gakpo further frustrated the Dutch side, preventing them from establishing any rhythm. As the first half ended, the scoreboard read Netherlands 0, Türkiye 1, reflecting Türkiye’s superior execution in crucial moments and the Netherlands’ ongoing struggle to convert their chances.
Tactical Shifts and Key Substitutions
The second half kicked off with a significant tactical change for the Netherlands as Wout Weghorst replaced Steven Bergwijn, a move aimed at bolstering the Dutch attack. This substitution immediately paid dividends as the Netherlands earned a corner in the 47th minute, showing their intent to press for an equalizer. Despite the initial offensive efforts, Türkiye’s defense, led by Kaan Ayhan, stood firm, denying the Dutch a clear scoring opportunity.
As the game progressed, tactical fouls and strategic free kicks became prominent. Cody Gakpo’s foul on Mert Müldür in the 49th minute set the tone for a physical encounter. The intensity of the match was highlighted when Nathan Aké received a yellow card in the 54th minute for a reckless challenge on Arda Güler. This physicality underscored the high stakes of the match, with both teams battling fiercely for control.
Dramatic Turnaround and Dutch Resurgence
The match saw a pivotal moment in the 70th minute when Stefan de Vrij headed in a well-placed cross from Memphis Depay, leveling the score at 1-1. This goal was a turning point, as the Dutch began to assert dominance. The Turkish side, despite their early lead, struggled to regain their composure and momentum.
Just six minutes later, the Netherlands took the lead in a dramatic fashion. An unfortunate own goal by Mert Müldür put Türkiye on the back foot. This sudden turnaround showcased the Dutch resilience and their ability to capitalize on critical moments. The double substitution by the Dutch in the 73rd minute, bringing on Joey Veerman and Micky van de Ven, added fresh energy to their squad, further consolidating their advantage.
Final Push and Tactical Adjustments
In the closing stages of the match, both teams made several substitutions in a bid to influence the outcome. Türkiye introduced Okay Yokuslu and Kerem Aktürkoglu in the 77th minute, hoping to inject fresh legs and creativity into their play. Despite these changes, the Dutch defense, marshaled by Virgil van Dijk, remained resolute, blocking several attempts by the Turkish forwards.
The match’s intensity peaked in the final minutes with Türkiye pressing for an equalizer. Cenk Tosun came close with a header in the 84th minute, but it was off target. Subsequent attempts by Zeki Çelik and Kerem Aktürkoglu were also blocked, reflecting the Dutch determination to hold onto their lead.
