EURO 2024 Roundup, Matchday 3
Matchday 3 of EURO 2024 saw some thrilling games, surprising results, and impressive individual displays. Here’s a summary of the matches played on Matchday 3.
Poland 1-2 Netherlands
Poland suffered their first defeat under coach Michał Probierz, as the Netherlands secured a 2-1 victory in the opening match of Group D at the 2024 UEFA European Championship. The Dutch team started strongly and tested Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny early on. Despite this, Poland managed to take the lead through Adam Buksa in the 16th minute. The Netherlands responded quickly with Cody Gakpo scoring an equalizer before the half-hour mark.
Poland was close to securing a point, with goalkeeper Szczęsny making a crucial save against Denzel Dumfries. However, the Netherlands scored a late goal when Nathan Aké found Wout Weghorst, who scored. Despite Poland’s efforts to equalize, late saves by Verbruggen prevented them from winning their first Euro match since 2016. On the other hand, the Dutch team have started their third major tournament in a row with a victory.
Slovenia 1-1 Denmark
In the first Group C match of Euro 2024, Slovenia managed to secure a draw against Denmark after falling behind early in the game at the MHPArena in Stuttgart. Despite this result, Slovenia is still seeking their first head-to-head victory against Denmark, having drawn twice and lost three times in previous encounters. The initial 15 minutes of the match were dominated by the Danes, and they capitalized on a quick throw-in to take the lead through Christian Eriksen’s well-placed shot. Slovenia, under Matjaž Kek’s guidance, made attempts to push forward but struggled to pose a significant threat to Denmark’s defense before halftime.
Denmark started the second half strong, maintaining possession and controlling the game’s pace. Slovenia posed a threat early on, causing issues for the Danish defense. Slovenia, then managed to score through Erik Janža, whose shot deflected off Morten Hjulmand and beat Schmeichel in the 77th minute. This goal changed the game’s dynamics, with Slovenia pushing for a win but ultimately settling for a draw. Denmark, on the other hand, missed opportunities to secure the win before Slovenia’s equalizer, leaving them frustrated to drop two points. Slovenia and Denmark are currently in second and third place in group C, with both teams having earned one point each.
Serbia 0-1 England
Jude Bellingham scored a header in the first half to give England a 1-0 victory over Serbia in a tense start to their Euro 2024 campaign. Despite facing strong pressure from Serbia in the second half, England held on for the win. The English team, led by Gareth Southgate, had a strong start with vocal support from their fans and took the lead through Bellingham’s goal. Bukayo Saka was a constant threat down the right wing, providing the assist for Bellingham’s goal.
In the second half, Serbia dominated possession and kept England pinned in their own half for extended periods, but they struggled to break through England’s defense to challenge Pickford. As the game neared its end, England faced intense pressure, but their makeshift defense held strong, securing a victory in their quest to end a 58-year trophy drought. Another win would secure their spot in the knockout stages, while Serbia must avoid defeat against Slovenia in their next match to stay in contention. England is currently leading group C with three points, whiles Serbia is in last place in the group.
