Ronald Koeman feels “very special” at the prospect of facing England in the Euro 2024 semi-finals after the Netherlands sealed their place with a thrilling comeback victory over Turkey.
Own goals from Stefan de Vrij and Mert Muldur overturned a half-time deficit as Europe’s two established teams meet in a major tournament for the first time since 1996 . Koeman’s men had some luck in the closing moments but were feeling the pressure and faced a high-octane game in Dortmund.
“It’s something special for the whole country,” said Koeman, reflecting on the fact that the Netherlands have not reached the European Cup semi-finals since 2004. Final, France and Spain, we are very proud to have been given this opportunity.
Twelve days ago, Koeman criticized his team’s poor performance against Austria, but this time he praised their attitude and effort in the deafening and sometimes incredibly intense environment of the Olympic Stadium. “It’s definitely an exciting game,” he said. “We have a big heart but sometimes we get criticized – compared to other countries we don’t have that big heart. The players showed great enthusiasm when we were 1-0 down. We had to Suffering, but ultimately a huge success.
England were knocked out by Switzerland earlier in the evening but Koeman played down any notion that extra time and penalties would cause greater damage to Southgate’s side. “It’s always a good feeling if you win a race,” he said. “We need to recover, just like England. It’s not a physical difference between them and us. We are playing on the same day and we need to travel like them. It’s not physical [aspect] This will determine the outcome.
When asked if he had a preferred final opponent, Koeman gave a clear choice. “First we need to try to win the semifinals,” he said. “Wednesday will be a good night between two historically great countries. If we play the final, I prefer Spain because we have France in the group stage.
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Turkey coach Vincenzo Montella saw glory in the defeat after being denied a late defensive effort by Bart Verbruggen in stoppage time. “I think we’re in the top five at the European Championships,” he said. “We are proud that we have gained recognition by feeling the support of the whole country and adopting our strategy. Our players should be kissed on the forehead. We should be very proud: we have come so far but still OK Achieve more.
