Audio By Carbonatix
Substitute Wout Weghorst swept in a late winner two minutes after coming on as former champions the Netherlands began their Euro 2024 campaign with victory against Poland at Hamburg’s Volksparkstadion.
In the hours before kick-off a man was shot by police close to where fans had been gathering in the city, but the game went ahead and delivered an entertaining encounter.
Poland were without their all-time top scorer Robert Lewandowski, out with a thigh injury, but put that blow behind them to stun the Dutch early on when Adam Buksa headed home.
The Netherlands had been the dominant side but missed a number of chances before Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo equalised when his deflected shot flew past Wojciech Szczesny.
The Dutch continued to create opportunities and Gakpo should have got his second before the break but sent Nathan Ake’s pullback over from close range.
Ronald Koeman’s side continued to dominate after the break and Szczesny denied Denzel Dumfries, before exciting youngster Xavi Simons drove an effort wide after being set up by Gakpo.
But just as it looked like they would have to settle for a draw, Burnley striker Weghorst - introduced in the 81st minute - snatched the win with a close-range finish moments after coming on.
It is a big win for the Netherlands with France up next for them in Group D on Friday, while Poland face Austria on the same day.
Latest Stories
-
African Forest Forum, AGRA and Ethiopian Forest Development push for deforestation-free trade and green jobs
1 minute -
MoMo-to-Bank charge is not E-Levy in any form—Dafeamekpor
5 minutes -
Outstanding teacher and nurse arrears to be paid in four instalments – Controller and Accountant-General
8 minutes -
African Climate Foundation calls for Africa-led climate action amid growing climate threats
16 minutes -
Defection as a tool of conflict: Riyadh’s movements in Sudan come to light
19 minutes -
‘You are not refugees’ — Ablakwa outlines support ahead of Ghana evacuees’ arrival
20 minutes -
Dafeamekpor confirms Ohene Kwame Frimpong under fraud and money laundering investigation in Netherlands
24 minutes -
Bail application filed for detained MP Ohene Kwame Frimpong — Dafeamekpor
36 minutes -
Only Parliament can impose taxes and levies — Dafeamekpor
46 minutes -
Mystic Twins Foundation continues to bring hope to marginalized communities
1 hour -
Dafeamekpor confirms NDC still pursuing election petition involving wife’s constituency
1 hour -
Dafeamekpor explains why he keeps family life private despite wife’s political career
1 hour -
Kwame Dadzie: Don’t spend government’s GH¢5 million to film sector
2 hours -
Former Accra Mayor Blankson endorses Wontumi for NPP national chairmanship
3 hours -
Eid festivals explained on Behind The Lens with Queen Liz
3 hours