Austria Shocks Netherlands with 3-2 Win in Euro 2024 Thriller; Secures Top Spot in Group D

In a dramatic Euro 2024 encounter, Austria stunned the Netherlands with a thrilling 3-2 victory, securing their place atop the group standings. The match kicked off with an unexpected own goal by Malen, setting a record for the fastest in Euros history. The Dutch, reeling from the early setback, struggled to find their rhythm until a halftime pep talk seemed to spark a resurgence.

Liverpool's Gakpo breathed life into the Dutch campaign early in the second half, leveling the score with a clinical finish. However, Austria retaliated swiftly, reclaiming the lead through Schmid's header off a precision cross from Grillitsch. The see-saw battle continued as Weghorst, brought on as a substitute, made an immediate impact, assisting Memphis to equalize once more.

Yet Austria's determination proved decisive, as Sabitzer's stunning strike from a tight angle sealed their victory, despite Baumgartner's earlier disallowed goal for offside. The Netherlands, with a higher expected goals (xG) tally of 1.62 compared to Austria's 0.98, now face an anxious wait to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.

With this result, Austria secures the top spot in the group and sets their sights on the runner-up of Group B in the next round, while the Dutch potentially line up against the winner of Group E, pending qualification.

Here is Group D final Standings: