Netherlands have failed to qualify for the U20 World Cup after a 5-4 defeat to Germany on penalties. The game ended 3-3 after extra time.
- By Michael Bell
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The Germans dominated the game from the beginning and took the lead just before half time with Philipp Ochs taking advantage of a defensive error to put his side ahead.
Netherlands failed to trouble the Germans after the break but equalised with their first shot on goal with Nouri’s free kick proving too strong for the goalkeeper. ADO Den Haag striker Dennis van der Heijden then headed the Dutch into the lead and it seemed a surprise victory was on the cards. However, in the second minute of extra time a corner was headed in by Suat Serdar as Germany took the game to an extra half-hour.
Marvin Mehlem put Germany ahead in the first half of extra time but PSV striker Sam Lammers levelled the dual with a fantastic finish early in the second period. Michael Vlap then had an excellent opportunity to seal victory for the Netherlands but his shot was denied at close range by the German goalkeeper.
The match went to penalties and it was Germany who missed first and through Nouri Netherlands had the chance to win, but his strike came off the bar. Vlap then missed his spot-kick and Germany eventually sealed their place at next summers World Cup.
Too bad. Would have been a good experience to go the World Cup. The future needs players performing at high levels. As critical as I have been on the KNVB I hope this effort today does not go without tons of encouragement given to the players but also letting them know they have to keep pressing to develop. And of course with all the hard work that must be demanded of these players creating a fun atmosphere is just as important. Good try guys and keep on growing.