Weghorst Nets Late Winner as Netherlands Edge Poland in Euro 2024 Opener
Wout Weghorst scored a dramatic late winner just two minutes after being introduced, as the Netherlands kicked off their Euro 2024 campaign with a hard-fought victory over Poland on Sunday in Hamburg.
Poland, playing without their all-time leading scorer Robert Lewandowski due to a thigh injury, stunned the Dutch with an early breakthrough. Adam Buksa rose highest to head home from a set piece, giving the Poles an unexpected lead against the run of play.
The Netherlands responded with sustained pressure and dominance in possession. Their persistence paid off midway through the first half when Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo levelled the score. Gakpo cut inside and fired a shot that took a deflection before beating goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.
Ronald Koeman’s side continued to push for a second goal and went close before the interval, with Gakpo missing a close-range chance after a clever pullback from Nathan Aké.
After the break, the Dutch maintained their attacking momentum, but Szczesny produced a series of vital saves to keep Poland in the contest, including a strong stop to deny Denzel Dumfries. Young midfielder Xavi Simons also threatened, narrowly missing the target as the Netherlands searched for a winner.
Just when the match appeared destined for a draw, substitute Wout Weghorst made an immediate impact. The former Manchester United striker, introduced in the 81st minute, finished from close range only moments after coming on to secure all three points for the Netherlands.
The late victory provides an ideal start for the Dutch, who now turn their attention to a heavyweight Group D clash against France on Friday. Poland, meanwhile, will aim to recover when they face Austria on the same day
