The Netherlands (Oranje) secured a crucial victory in a Euro 2024 qualifier against the Republic of Ireland at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

Cody Gakpo and Wout Weghorst were the heroes for Ronald Koeman’s side as they aimed to qualify for the European Championships in Germany.

Manager Ronald Koeman made three changes to the starting lineup, with Mats Wieffer, Donyell Malen, and Matthijs de Ligt coming in for Marten de Roon, Wout Weghorst, and the injured Lutsharel Geertruida. The match got off to a challenging start for Oranje as they conceded an early penalty to Ireland, with Adam Idah converting it.

However, Oranje bounced back with a penalty of their own, with Cody Gakpo finding the net. Donyell Malen was a constant threat in the first half, forcing saves from the Irish goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu. The Netherlands struggled with passing out from the back due to Ireland’s pressing.

At halftime, Koeman made two key substitutions, bringing on Wout Weghorst and Tijjani Reijnders, and it paid off as Weghorst volleyed home a goal after a well-worked play involving Denzel Dumfries.

Although Ireland attempted a comeback, they couldn’t break down the Dutch defense further. The victory puts the Netherlands in a strong position in Group B, with crucial matches against group leaders France and Greece coming up in the next international break.

As it currently stands, France leads the group with 15 points, the Netherlands is second with nine points, and Greece also has nine points but is behind on goal difference.