Netherlands’ late rally earns them qualification at France’s expense

The Netherlands came from 2-0 down to score two late goals and earn a draw and a place in the finals of the UEFA Nations League

A draw was enough for the Dutch as they ousted world champions France out of the finals.

The Germans, who had a disastrous qualifying tournament, had already been relegated.

Leow’s team had a fiery start taking a 2-0 lead by the 20th minute. The Netherlands reduced the gap in the 85th minute, but then got the important equaliser in added time.

Timo Werner opened the scoring on 9 minutes and Leroy Sane added a second – his shot was slightly deflected by a Dutch defender – on the 19th minute.

The Netherlands chased a goal to get back into the match but did not create any clear-cut chances.

However, they were an improved side in the second half, but they still failed to penetrate the German rearguard in which Bayern’s central defenders Sule and Hummels were outstanding.

Midway through Werner had an effort just missing the target, while at the other end, Depay had a good chance on 78 minutes, but his effort was turned to corner by Neuer.

It was Quincy Prunes who provided the Dutch with some hope when he scored on 85 minutes, and it was no surprise that they equalised in added time through Virgil van Dijk.