Cody Gakpo emerged as the hero for the Netherlands, leading them to a resounding 3-0 victory over Romania in the round of 16 clash of the 2024 European Championship at Munich’s Allianz Arena on Monday.

Gakpo opened the scoring with a brilliant individual effort in the first half, cutting inside before unleashing a powerful strike past Romanian goalkeeper Florin Nita. He then displayed his creative prowess later in the game, assisting Donyell Malen for the crucial second goal in the 83rd minute.

The Netherlands dominated possession throughout the match, with Gakpo’s goal and assist and Malen’s double highlighting their attacking prowess. Romania, who qualified top of their group despite facing strong teams like Belgium, struggled to create clear opportunities and were ultimately outclassed.

Despite qualifying through the best third-placed team slot, the Dutch displayed a commanding performance. They controlled the ball from the outset, completing 150 passes in the first 30 minutes compared to Romania’s 73. This dominance translated to an early goal, with Gakpo expertly finishing off a well-worked move in the 20th minute.

Romania showed little attacking threat, failing to register a shot on target in the first half. They were forced to make a substitution in the 38th minute due to Vasile Mogo’s injury, but the change did little to improve their fortunes.

The second half was similar to the first, with the Netherlands continuing to dictate the tempo. They thought they had doubled their lead in the 63rd minute after another Gakpo effort, but the goal was disallowed for offside following a VAR review.

Undeterred, the Dutch continued their relentless attack, eventually finding the second goal through Malen in the 83rd minute. Gakpo was again instrumental, providing the assist for the close-range finish that put the game to bed.

Malen added a further flourish in stoppage time with a stunning individual effort from outside the box, sealing a convincing 3-0 victory for the Netherlands.

With this dominant performance, the Dutch advance to the quarter-finals, where they will await the winner of the match between Austria and Turkey. Things are looking bright for Roland Koeman’s men as they continue their quest for European glory since winning this trophy in Germany in 1988.