Netherlands are into the quarter-finals of the European Championships after defeating Switzerland 4-1.

Mark Parsons was able to welcome back Jackie Groenen to the midfield for the clash that Netherlands knew they only needed a point from to reach the last eight.

Switzerland started the better side and Goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar kept the scores level. Halfway through the first-half Netherlands were awarded a penalty but VAR intervened and it was denied. Before the break, Lieke Martens put a header over the bar.

Four minutes into the second half, Netherlands had the lead with Stefanie van der Gragt’s effort diverted into her own net by Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic. The lead only lasted four minutes before Geraldine Reuteler equalised.

Parsons intervened with Victoria Pelova and Kerstin Casparij, Esmee Brugts and Romée Leuchter coming on as Netherlands went for the win. Pelova hit the bar before Leuchter did make it 2-1 with a header.

Pelova and Leuchter then added further goals before the end to make the scoreline 4-1 at the end.

Netherlands ended second in the group because Sweden defeated Portugal 5-0 and now France awaits in the last eight. The French are one of the favourites to win the title so it will be a huge task for the Oranje Vrouwen if they are going to keep the hopes of retaining their title alive.




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