The Netherlands overcame an initial slow pace to secure a 4-0 win against Scotland in a friendly match at the Johan Cruyff Arena, showcasing strong finishes and strategic gameplay as part of their Euro 2024 preparations.
The Netherlands overcame a sluggish start to secure a decisive 4-0 win against Scotland in their international friendly match at the Johan Cruyff Arena on Friday, concluding with a strong finish that boosted team morale.
Tijjani Reijnders opened the scoring with a long-range effort in the 40th minute, marking the beginning of what would be the Dutch team’s fourth consecutive victory. Despite Scotland’s resilience, including two instances where they struck the woodwork, the Dutch held onto their lead.
Georginio Wijnaldum extended the advantage with a close-range header in the 72nd minute. Late substitutions Wout Weghorst and Donyell Malen added two more goals in the final minutes, cementing a strong finish for the hosts.
The friendly served as preparation for the upcoming European Championship in June, with the Netherlands placed in Group D and Scotland set to face the hosts Germany in the opening match. Scotland showcased early promise, particularly in the 18th minute when Ryan Christie nearly scored, only to be denied by Dutch goalkeeper Mark Flekken’s deflection onto the crossbar. Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour also threatened in the second half, but were unable to breach the Dutch defense.
Scotland missed a golden opportunity to equalize in the 61st minute following a defensive error, but Lawrence Shankland’s effort hit the crossbar. Dutch goalkeeper Angus Gunn made an impressive save against Memphis Depay, marking his return to the national team. However, Gunn was unable to stop Wijnaldum, Weghorst, and Malen’s subsequent goals.
Weghorst’s header in the 84th minute followed by Malen’s strike two minutes later showcased the Dutch’s lethal finishing, hinting at a potential for an even more substantial victory margin. Nevertheless, Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk expressed a need for improvement, particularly in being more clinical in possession, as the team prepares for the European Championship.
Both teams look ahead to their next fixtures in their Euro 2024 preparations, with the Netherlands facing Germany in Frankfurt and Scotland hosting Northern Ireland at Hampden Park on Tuesday.
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