Euro 2024: Netherlands forced into early substitution as star man picks up injury in S/F clash against England
The Netherlands were forced into an early substitution as star man Memphis Depay picked up an injury during their EURO 2024 semi-final against England. Ons Oranje couldn't continue the game with Depay at Allianz Arena on July 10.
Xavi Simons powered a brilliant shot beyond goalkeeper Jordan Pickford with just seven minutes on the clock to open the scoring. Declan Rice lost the ball in his own half, which Simons snatched up, drove towards the area, and unleashed his effort into the top left corner.
Denzel Dumfries was deemed to have hit Harry Kane's foot in the penalty area as the England captain took a shot about 10 minutes later. The incident was reviewed by VAR, and the penalty was given. Although goalkeeper Verbruggen dove in the right direction, the effort from Kane beat him with pure power.
England had a couple more chances in the EURO 2024 semi-final first half through Phil Foden. His first big chance was stopped off the line, and his second hit the crossbar from range. Dumfries also tried to make amends for the Netherlands, smashing the crossbar with the ball from a header.
Ten minutes before the half-time whistle, Memphis Depay went down, sitting in the middle third of the pitch. After the medical staff attended to the free agent on the pitch, it was clear he wouldn't be able to continue. Joey Veerman, who plays for PSV Eindhoven, came on as a substitute for the forward.
The Netherlands eventually lost 2-1 against England, who set up a berth in the EURO 2024 final against Spain.
England captain Harry Kane opens up about potentially beating the Netherlands and reaching EURO 2024 final
England notably lost the EURO 2020 final on penalties, as Italy lifted the trophy on the day. They reached the semi-finals against the Netherlands this time and looked to reach the final and change the events of three years ago.
Ahead of the EURO 2024 semi-final, Harry Kane said during media duties (via BBC):
"I just think during the game you lean on experience, the leaders who have been there and done that. Ultimately it's about going out there and taking the opportunity with both hands. Reaching back-to-back European Championship finals would be an amazing achievement and we have the opportunity to go and do that."
Kane notably scored a penalty against Ons Oranje before being subbed off in the second half. His substitute Ollie Watkins scored the winning goal for the Three Lions.