Evening Standard
·28 juin 2024
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·28 juin 2024
Tough draw for surprise Group E winners
Romania’s reward for topping Group E is a tricky last-16 clash with Netherlands at Euro 2024.
Both teams finished with four points after three games but the Dutch only managed to secure third place in their ‘Group of Death’ following a defeat to Austria on Tuesday.
Ronald Koeman has struggled to get the Oranje firing but they remain a threat going into the latter stages, with a favourable draw here and either Turkey or a rematch with the Austrians if they reach the quarter-finals.
Romania have already exceeded expectations by reaching the knockouts but should now have the confidence that they can go deep.
An opening-day hammering of Ukraine set them on their way before losing to Belgium and sealing their progression with a mutually-beneficial draw against Slovakia.
Romania vs Netherlands is scheduled for a 5pm BST kick-off on Tuesday July 2, 2024.
The match will take place at the Allianz Arena in Munich.
The Dutch squeezed through in third place of their group
AFP via Getty Images
TV channel: In the UK, the game will be televised live on BBC One, with coverage beginning at 4.30pm.
Live stream: Fans can also catch the contest live online for free via the BBC Sport and BBC iPlayer app and website.
Live blog: You can follow all the action on matchday via Standard Sport’s live blog.
Nicusor Bancu is banned for Edward Iordanescu’s side after two bookings in the group stage. Without a natural replacement at left-back, Vasile Mogos could be called up with the Cluj defender or regular right-back Andrei Ratiu moving over.
Romania swapped out both their wingers for the Slovakia draw and competition is high between Ianis Hagi, Dennis Man, Florinel Coman and Valentin Mihaila as to who starts on Tuesday.
Koeman has been unable to settle on his best XI and even hooked midfielder Joey Veerman during the first half of Netherlands’ defeat to Austria.
Denzel Dumfries could return at right-back and there is competition between Donyell Malen, Xavi Simons and Jeremie Frimpong to complete the attack.
Two sides which struggle to score goals could lead to a long night in Munich. Perhaps this is the last-16 tie where an upset is most likely.
Romania to win on penalties.
Romania have only ever managed three goals in 13 games against the Dutch with their lone win coming courtesy of a far-post tap-in from former Rangers defender Dorin Goian in a Euros qualifier 17 years ago.
Romania wins: 1
Netherlands wins: 9
Draws: 3
Romania to qualify: 4/1
Netherlands to qualify: 1/6
Odds via Betfair (subject to change).