Marcel Sabitzer Snatches Austria Euros Group Win Against Netherlands
Marcel Sabitzer lashed home to earn Austria a thrilling 3-2 win against the Netherlands and send his team through top of Euro 2024 Group D, ahead of tournament favorites France and the third-place Dutch.
All three nations are through to the last 16, but Ralf Rangnick’s intense Austria side showed why some consider them dark horses to win the tournament for the first time on a rollicking afternoon in Berlin.
Donyell Malen’s own goal sent Austria ahead, but Cody Gakpo pulled the Dutch level early in the second half. Romano Schmid headed home for Austria with Memphis Depay equalizing once more, before Sabitzer settled the frantic, end-to-end tussle.
Rangnick made four changes for Austria from the side that effectively knocked out Poland, with defender Gernot Trauner injured, while Christoph Baumgartner was left on the bench after his previous goal.
Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman selected Malen in attack among three changes from the goalless draw against France.
The Borussia Dortmund forward got off to an unfortunate start when he deflected Alexander Prass’ cross into his own net. Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders missed a chance to equalize, scuffing his shot badly wide.
The Austria fans outnumbered and outsung the Dutch supporters in Berlin, as Rangnick’s team dominated the match.
The Dutch struggled to keep up, with Koeman making changes early on to boost creativity. Austria had the upper hand, with chances from Sabitzer and Arnautovic testing the Dutch defense.
As the second half began, the Netherlands came out fired up and equalized through Gakpo. Austria responded with Schmid’s goal, but the Dutch struck back with Depay scoring to level the game again.
In the end, Sabitzer’s decisive goal sealed the victory for Austria, showcasing their resilience and determination against a tough Dutch side.