Source: Xinhua
06-18-2008 13:11
Special Report: 2008 European ChampionshipsBERN, June 17 (Xinhua) -- The Netherlands fielded a second-string but good enough team in the match against Romania and wrapped up the encounter 2-0 at the Euro 2008.
In the Group C final round match, Netherlands coach Marco van Basten made nine changes to the starting line-up in the match against France, but still scored a conprhensive victory.
Young striker Klaas Jan Huntelaar opened the scoring at the 54th minute while Robin van Persie made it 2-0 at the 87th minute for the Dutch team, which had a perfect record in the Group of Death.
The opening stage of the match was played at a leisurely pace with Romania not wanting to concede early on, a tactic which had served them well in their previous two group matches.
But Italy's goal 25th minute in the other match against France forced the Romanians drop the tactic and push forward for a goal.
Romania could only qualify for the quarterfinals with a win provided that Italy beat France in the other match.
But the more the Romanians attack, the easier the Netherlands explored the space behind the Romania defence.
van Basten's team now are masters of counter-attack. van Persiewas the constant threat to the Romanian goal, but it was Klaas Jan Huntelaar who broke the deadlock.
Three minutes from time, van Persie finally found the net when he got a crossfield pass from de Zeeuw and rifled a rising shot past Romanian goalie.
The win dashed Romania's hope of staying in Euro 2008 and sent Italy to the last eight. Italy beat ten-men France 2-0 in the other Group C match in Zurich.
Editor:Zhang Ning
