Netherlands U17’s have exited the European Championships after three consecutive draws in the group stage.
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The tournament in Bulgaria began for the Dutch with a disappointing 0-0 draw against the Republic of Ireland in a game that Maarten Stekelenburg’s side dominated from the start but couldn’t put the ball in the net. That was followed up by another disappointing performance, but despite being second best Netherlands secured a 1-1 draw against England, which meant a victory over Italy would have been enough for Netherlands to make the quarter-finals.
After only six minutes Patrick Cutrone put Italy 1-0 up, but an own goal from Italy defender Federico Giraudo gave Netherlands hope with fifteen minutes to go. Dani de Wit then netted what looked to be a perfectly good goal for Netherlands, but the referee ruled it out and Italy held on to secure their place in the next round, dumping the Dutch out.
The exit means Netherlands have failed to qualify for the U17 World Cup, which takes place in October.
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