Netherlands’ dominant win over Romania: Five key observations as Gakpo and Malen get Koeman’s men flying

Here are five key takeaways from the match that highlight the Dutch masterclass.

1. Cody Gakpo’s Sparkling Form

Cody Gakpo was the heartbeat of the Netherlands’ attack, demonstrating why he’s a vital asset for both club and country.

Gakpo’s goal in the 19th minute set the tone, a sublime strike from the edge of the box after cutting inside from the left flank. His confidence was palpable as he orchestrated the Dutch offence, nearly adding a second goal and eventually setting up Donyell Malen for the team’s second.

Gakpo’s ability to glide past defenders and his precise finishing were crucial in breaking down Romania’s defence, making him the standout performer of the night.

2. Donyell Malen’s Impactful Cameo

Substituted in at halftime for Steven Bergwijn, Donyell Malen was an immediate game-changer.

His two goals, including a brilliant solo effort in stoppage time, underscored his poacher’s instinct and clinical finishing.

Malen’s pace and directness stretched Romania’s backline, creating space and opportunities for his teammates. His performance was a statement, and he surely has cemented his place in the starting lineup for the upcoming quarterfinal.

3. Midfield Mastery

The Dutch midfield trio of Jerdy Schouten, Xavi Simons, and Tijjani Reijnders controlled the tempo with a blend of technical skill and physical presence.

Schouten’s vision was on display with a perfectly weighted pass that led to Gakpo’s opener, while Simons and Reijnders constantly probed the Romanian defence with their intelligent movement and precise passing.

Simons, despite an early slip in the box, delivered some sensational passes, and Reijnders’ box-to-box dynamism kept Romania on the back foot throughout.

4. Defensive Solidity and Tactical Flexibility

Although Romania pressed hard at the beginning, the Dutch defence, marshaled by Virgil van Dijk and Stefan De Vrij, held firm.

De Vrij’s high line stifled Romanian attacks, while Nathan Ake’s sweeping long passes and last-ditch tackles were critical. Van Dijk had a mixed game with some shaky moments, but his leadership and experience were vital in organizing the backline.

Denzel Dumfries, as always, was a constant threat with his overlapping runs, although his influence waned in the second half. The Dutch backline’s ability to adapt and maintain a high defensive line under pressure was impressive.

5. Ronald Koeman’s Tactical Brilliance

Ronald Koeman deserves credit for his strategic acumen.

The decision to press high and aggressively paid off, as the Netherlands dominated possession and created numerous chances.

Koeman’s substitutions, particularly bringing on Malen at halftime, were spot on and demonstrated his tactical flexibility.

While the finishing left room for improvement, the overall performance was a fitting response to previous criticisms and confirmed the Netherlands as a formidable force in this tournament.