Euro 2024 Update: Austria Shocks Netherlands, France Takes Second

Ralf Rangnick's Austria was the surprisingly victorious team on the Group D final matchday of Euro 2024. Austria defeated Ronald Koeman's team 3-2 in Berlin on Tuesday, June 25. Conversely, Poland held France 1-1 in Dortmund, denying them a chance to win the group.

After Cody Gakpo and Memphis Depay's goals allowed the Netherlands to rally twice, Austria won for the first time in 34 years thanks to a late goal by Marcel Sabitzer in the 80th minute. In a spectacular finish, Sabitzer sent one from a tight angle on the left into the back post.

In the sixth minute of the Berlin match, Austria led thanks to an own goal by Donyell Malen. Austria led 1-0 at halftime, but Cody Gakpo scored immediately following the break as the Netherlands countered Austria's attack. At that hour, a diving header by Romano Schmid gave Austria the lead again.

In the 75th minute, Memphis Depay leveled for the Netherlands following the introduction of VAR for a handball check. The Dutch were on the verge of complacency when Sabitzer delivered a devastating blow in the 80th minute.

France advanced to the knockout stage as the second-place team, while Austria, the table-toppers, secured their spot in the Round of 16. The top two teams after the group stage, together with the four best third-placed teams, will qualify; hence, the Netherlands are not out of the knockout stage. Koeman's side is in good shape to advance.

After losing 1-0 to France to start their Euro 2024 campaign, Austria stunned Poland 3-1 and then shocked the Netherlands. Rangnick's team has set the standard early, scoring six goals in their final two group stage games.

Austria will play one of the third-placed teams; therefore, they have allowed themselves to have huge dreams. Having made things difficult for themselves, the Netherlands, meanwhile, might be up against a group winner.

Lewandowski snatched a draw for Poland

France has cause for concern because they only won once in the group stage, against Austria, and have been held twice. Didier Deschamps will concentrate on finishing abilities ahead of more difficult opponents in the Round of 16, as Kylian Mbappe's team has only scored twice in the group stage (including an own goal).

After starting on the bench against the Netherlands, Kylian Mbappe played ninety minutes against Poland. He gave the defending champs a 1-0 lead in the second half with a spot-kick. It was also his maiden goal in the Euro, but Robert Lewandowski equalized for Poland by scoring from the spot himself.

Since Poland placed last in Group D, their Euro campaign ended. With players like Lewandowski expected to leave international service, the dismal outcome may also signal a change of guard in the Polish team. 

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