Hamburg, Germany – Substitute Wout Weghorst swept in a late winner two minutes after coming on, as former champions the Netherlands began their Euro 2024 campaign with a dramatic 2-1 victory against Poland at Hamburg’s Volksparkstadion.
In the hours leading up to kick-off, a man was shot by police near where fans had been gathering in the city, causing initial concerns about the match. However, the game proceeded as planned and delivered an entertaining encounter.
Poland, missing their all-time top scorer Robert Lewandowski due to a thigh injury, managed to strike first. Adam Buksa stunned the Dutch early on, heading home to give Poland the lead.
Despite being the dominant side, the Netherlands missed several chances before Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo equalised with a deflected shot that flew past Poland’s goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczesny.
The Dutch continued to create opportunities, and Gakpo came close to adding a second before the break, only to send Nathan Ake’s pullback over the bar from close range.
Ronald Koeman’s side maintained their dominance in the second half. Szczesny denied Denzel Dumfries, and exciting youngster Xavi Simons drove an effort wide after being set up by Gakpo. Just as it seemed the match would end in a draw, Burnley striker Weghorst, introduced in the 81st minute, snatched the win with a close-range finish moments after coming on.
“It’s a big win for us with France up next in Group D on Friday, while Poland will face Austria on the same day,” Koeman remarked. “Wout Weghorst was able to play and he has added value to the team. He has a different way of behaving, and that is what we needed.”
Dutch Late Heroics and Dominance
The Netherlands have not won the European Championship since 1988, when current boss Koeman was a player. They are among the favourites to triumph in Germany, boasting a strong blend of youth and experience, despite the loss of key playmaker Frenkie de Jong to an ankle injury just before the tournament.
Their confident and accurate passing led to numerous chances, and they should have been out of sight before Buksa struck with one of Poland’s first opportunities. Gakpo deservedly got the Netherlands level, but finishing continued to be an issue for Koeman’s men as chances to take the lead came and went.
Weghorst’s late introduction proved decisive. “This should have been 4-1 in favour of us after one hour,” Koeman said. “We played very well but couldn’t finish opportunities. Cody Gakpo also played very well. He was dangerous, and we should give him the ball more often.”
Poland’s Resilience Without Lewandowski
Despite the absence of Lewandowski, Poland showed resilience. Buksa, filling in for Lewandowski, impressed by making the most of his opportunity when he flicked in the opener at the near post. Poland’s first shot on target highlighted their efficiency, and they had chances to double their lead, which might have been taken had Lewandowski been fit enough to play.
Poland boss Michal Probierz remains optimistic: “Lewandowski is coming back to strength, and he will hopefully play against Austria. He is a very important player for us. Hopefully, we will have more competition in this team. We are not giving up. We will do everything we can to qualify.
The Netherlands’ late win against Poland sets the stage for an exciting Group D battle with France, while Poland will look to bounce back against Austria. This thrilling opener showcased the Dutch’s potential and Poland’s determination, promising an engaging Euro 2024 tournament ahead.
