New Delhi: Fans are one of the most important aspects of any game. It is for and around them that a game develops. In Germany, Dutch supporters came in the biggest volumes to support their team. Every game the side has played witnesses a sea of orange waiting for their team to get one step closer to the trophy. However, they will leave the tournament dejected after losing 2-1 to England in the semi-finals.
It was a dream start for the Dutch side as Xavi Simons scored in the seventh minute within four touches. He was impressive, both in leading the press and playing the link in the field.
Just when the Dutch supporters were preparing for their first Euro Championship appearance since winning in 1988, Harry Kane seemed to have other ideas. Kane took advantage of a controversial penalty decision in the 18th minute and scored England’s opening goal.
From here, the game was open to both sides. With Simons attacking, it was a daunting task for the two Dutch central midfielders to fend off the relentless efforts of English attackers and midfielders. With the players moving everywhere, it was difficult for the Dutch team to hold on to the ground they had built. Their fans, too, grew quieter looking at England’s determination.
By half-time, the Dutch threat of England had faded away. Virgil van Dijk, though, pulled back the momentum towards his side after forcing Jordan Pickford into a low save. With ten minutes remaining in the play, Gareth Southgate introduced Ollie Watkins, who scored a 90-minute goal to take his side to Sunday’s Euro final against Spain.
The City of Dortmund, which witnessed the city being painted in Orange, have also witnessed Dutch fans’ disorderly behaviour. Around the city, there have been multiple reports of fans clashing in bars, with five reportedly injured when England fans were attacked by Dutch fans.
A video has been circulating on social media showing fans throwing chairs towards a bar, one sporting a Dutch football shirt. Bar workers have noted damages to bar properties, including one reporting that their TV was broken during fights, which stopped them from showing the game.
The UK Football Policing Unit has acknowledged the disorder in Dortmund. They even noted that Dutch fans attacked England fans and attempted to steal flags. At the end of the day, it is just a football game—a game that is all about including everyone for the purpose of entertainment only. Meanwhile, England have now qualified for their consecutive European Championship finals and will now face three-time Champions Spain on Sunday in Berlin.
Though Netherlands had the widest fanbase in Euro 2024, it wasn’t enough for the Dutch team to travel to Berlin for the finals. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
