The holders, Netherlands have reached the quarter-finals of the U17 European Championships after a 5-2 win over England in Dublin.

After their 2-0 win over Sweden last week, Netherlands went into the game knowing a win would put them through to the quarter-finals with a game to spare.

However, England, who drew their opening game against France, started well and took the lead in the seventh minute. Taylor Harwood-Bellis headed in a corner.

Netherlands were only behind for three minutes before Ajax striker Brian Brobbey equalised with a strong finish.

In the 34th minute, Melayro Bogarde conceded a penalty and Sam Greenwood restored England’s lead from the spot. However, once again Netherlands hit back quickly through Feyenoord striker Naoufal Bannis, who found the net after Ian Maatsen’s strike hit the post.

The woodwork then denied Brobbey before the break as Netherlands looked to take the lead for the first time in the match. In first-half injury time, it was 3-2 for Netherlands as Ajax midfielder Sontje Hansen curled the ball into the net from the edge of the box.

England made a strong start to the second half, but in the 58th minute, Brobbey made it 4-2 from the penalty spot after a handball.

Naci Unuvar then made it 5-2 with a strike that flew through the English goalkeeper’s hands.

Brobbey and Hansen missed decent chances for a sixth goal before the end as Netherlands eased to victory.

On Thursday, Netherlands face France in the final group game but a place in the last eight is already confirmed.




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