The Olympiastadion Berlin was a scene of unexpected triumph as the Netherlands, against all odds, staged an incredible comeback to upset Turkey and secure their place in another European semifinal.
The Netherlands came into the contest full of optimism after they thrashed Romania 3-0, while Turkey beat Austria 2- in the round of 16 ties.
Ronald Koeman used the same lineup as the one that faced Romania. At the same time, Vincenzo Montella retained the same time, except banned Merih Demiral out for Samet Akaydin and Hakan Calhanoglu returning for the Turks.
Turkey took the lead in the 35th minute following Samet Akaydin’s header after Van Dijk blocked a Turkish corner taken by Hakanoglu, but Guler‘s rebound was missed by Akaydin, giving Turkey an edge in the contest.
The first half ended with Turkey in the lead, and the Dutch team, brimming with determination, launched a relentless assault on the Turks in the second half.
They finally broke through in the 70th minute when Stefan De Vriej sent in a well-taken corner from Memphis Depay, giving the Dutch hope for qualifying.
Five minutes later, Cody Gakpo completed the comeback after Denzel Dumfries opened down the right and sent a teasing balm into his path, although this was later said to be his own goal.
The final ten minutes were a whirlwind of action, as Turkey desperately sought to equalize through Tosun, Arturkoglu, and Gulër. However, with unwavering determination, the Netherlands held their ground and secured their sixth semifinal game, a testament to their resilience and fortitude.
The Dutch now also have a surprise contender for the Golden Boot. Cody Gakpo, with three goals, is the leading goalscorer of the competition.
Netherlands will taken on England in one of the Semifinals on Wednesday, 9pm local time (19:00GMT) at BVB Stadion in Dortmund.
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