The Netherlands wrapped up their Euro 2024 preparations with a commanding 4-0 victory over Iceland. Goals from Xavi Simons, Virgil van Dijk, Donyell Malen, and Wout Weghorst highlighted a dominant performance at Stadion Feijenoord. Xavi Simons opened the scoring in the first half after a neat combination between Joey Veerman and Denzel Dumfries. Van Dijk doubled the lead early in the second half, heading home from close range after Nathan Ake flicked on a corner. Malen made it 3-0 in the 79th minute, converting a through ball from Memphis Depay. Weghorst capped the win by tapping in Malen’s unselfish pass six minutes from time.
Despite this impressive win, the Netherlands received a blow with the announcement that Frenkie de Jong will miss the tournament due to recurring ankle injuries. The Barcelona midfielder, who had been battling to regain fitness, was deemed unfit after medical examinations. The Oranje have won six of their last seven matches and are set to face Poland in their Euro 2024 opener on Sunday. Although coach Ronald Koeman made several changes to his lineup, the team maintained its strong form, outshooting Iceland 22-3 and showcasing their attacking prowess.
Joey Veerman stepped up in the absence of Frenkie de Jong, delivering an all-action display. The PSV Eindhoven midfielder led in final-third entries, chances created, touches, crosses, and tackles, making a strong case for his inclusion in the starting lineup.
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