Austria Stuns Netherlands to Top Group D at Euro 2024

Netherlands Pushed to the Limit as Austria Tops Group D with Impressive Win

Austria secures a spot in the Euro 2024 round of 16 with a thrilling 3-2 win over the Netherlands, topping Group D in the process. Marcel Sabitzer's goal seals the victory for Ralf Rangnick's team, who showed tremendous energy and commitment throughout the match.

Austria delivered a stunning performance to defeat the Netherlands and top Group D at Euro 2024, securing a spot in the round of 16. Ralf Rangnick's team won two of their three matches, including a hard-fought draw against France and the Netherlands, to finish first in the group standings.

The Netherlands will advance as one of the top third-place teams, with France finishing second, despite already securing their spot in the round of 16. Marcel Sabitzer's goal sealed the victory for Austria, who showed tremendous commitment and energy throughout, particularly when the Netherlands started strong in the second half.

Austria took the lead early on through Donyell Malen's header from Alexander Prass's dangerous cross, but the Netherlands equalized just 75 seconds into the second half through Cody Gakpo's superb finish. The Dutch pushed hard for a winner, with Virgil van Dijk's header going just over the crossbar, but Austria managed to weather the storm and regain the lead through Romano Schmid's strong header.

The Dutch thought they had secured a draw when Memphis Depay's close-range volley went unchecked for a handball, but Sabitzer had the last say, breaking through and driving the ball into the roof of the net to send the Austrian fans into raptures. Austria's performance leading up to Euro 2024 had already shown they were a team to be taken seriously, with three wins from four games before heading to Germany in 2023 and two consecutive victories to end the year.

Read Also: Euro 2024: France Held to Draw by Poland as Mbappe Makes Triumphant Return

While the Netherlands is known for their slick attacking play, Austria played with pace and precision in Berlin, frequently forcing their opponents into unfavorable positions with their relentless running and movement. The Dutch deserve credit for twice fighting back to level the game, but Austria's never-say-die spirit earned them a well-deserved victory. When the final whistle blew, the Austrian supporters stayed behind to celebrate their team's triumph, showcasing a unity that will serve them well in Germany.

Marcel Sabitzer won man of the match.