The Netherlands made a thrilling comeback to defeat Turkey 2-1, securing a spot in the semifinals against England.
This marks the first time in two decades that the 1988 champions have reached the final four, thanks to a dramatic turnaround.
A Dutch double within six minutes of the second half broke Turkish hearts. The Netherlands will now face England in Dortmund on Wednesday, vying for a place in the Euro 2024 final.
An own goal by Mert Müldür capped off the Netherlands’ comeback victory, propelling them to a semifinal clash.
Turkey initially took the lead in the 35th minute when the Dutch failed to clear a corner, allowing Arda Güler to deliver a perfect cross to the back post for Samet Akaydin to head home.
Turkey’s first-half lead, courtesy of Akaydin, was overturned by second-half goals from Stefan de Vrij and an unfortunate own goal by Müldür, sending Ronald Koeman’s side through.
The match began at a frenetic pace, reflecting the electric atmosphere in Berlin. The large Turkish diaspora in Germany’s capital has given the tournament a home-like feel for Turkey, while the enthusiastic Dutch fans have also made their presence felt.
Despite the intensity, both teams struggled to find a shot on target in the first half-hour.
The breakthrough came with a brilliant piece of play from the tournament’s breakout star, Arda Güler. The 19-year-old controlled a loose ball expertly with his left foot before delivering a right-footed cross that Akaydin headed home.
Turkey, unlike many established sides, chose not to sit on their lead, continuing to press the Dutch defense even at the risk of leaving gaps.
Their fans, including Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, looked on from the stands. Erdogan’s presence came despite a diplomatic row over a gesture from Merih Demiral in the previous round, which led to Demiral’s two-game ban for making the gray wolf sign, associated with Turkey’s far-right.
Some fans continued to make the controversial gesture despite warnings from German police.
Güler has shown exceptional promise, displaying skills and composure beyond his years.
After starting his career at Istanbul’s Fenerbahce, he moved to Real Madrid at the start of the 2023-24 season, though injury kept him out until early this year. Despite not playing in the Champions League, he became the first Turkish player to receive a winners’ medal under UEFA rules.
His performances in Germany suggest this won’t be his last accolade. He nearly doubled Turkey’s lead with a curling free-kick that Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen tipped onto the post.
Every Dutch possession was met with furious whistles from the stands, while Turkish touches were cheered as if they were goals.
Substitute Wout Weghorst missed the Netherlands’ best chance, but their hopes were revived when Stefan de Vrij scored a header in the 70th minute. Müldür’s own goal, while challenging Cody Gakpo, silenced the Turkish fans for the first time. Despite a late push, Turkey couldn’t find an equalizer.
