Netherlands Dominate Wales in Impressive Start to Women’s EURO 2025 Campaign

The Netherlands kicked off their UEFA Women’s European Championship journey in spectacular fashion, securing a decisive 3-0 triumph over Wales. This defeat extended Wales’ winless streak to seven matches, comprising two draws and five losses.

As clear favourites heading into the clash, the Dutch arrived with an impressive record, having lost just once in their previous six outings (four wins and one draw). Playing against the lowest-ranked side in the tournament, the Oranje were brimming with confidence of clinching all three points.

Andries Jonker’s squad came close to opening the scoring within the first five minutes when Jill Roord made a dazzling run in from the left, sending a curling shot towards the far top corner. However, a brilliant save from Olivia Clark denied the Dutch early on.

Welsh supporters heaved a sigh of relief ten minutes before half-time when Roord struck a fierce shot from the edge of the box which struck the right post, keeping the game goalless.

Unfortunately for the Dragons, that moment of solace was short-lived, as the Netherlands took the lead in the dying moments of the first half.

The goal came from a familiar face, with Vivianne Miedema, the team’s all-time leading scorer, netting her 100th goal for the Oranje in her 126th appearance.

The second half commenced in disastrous fashion for Wales; Danielle van de Donk sped past the Welsh defence and delivered a precise cut-back to Victoria Pelova, who calmly slotted the ball past Clark into the bottom-left corner.

Following the break, Jonker’s troops remained in control, and just minutes later, Roord struck the crossbar with a well-aimed left-footed shot, coming close to extending their lead.

Wales’ troubles deepened when, less than an hour into the match, Esmee Brugts converted Pelova’s excellent cross from the back post, bringing the score to 3-0.

The Dutch maintained their dominance as they sought a fourth goal throughout the remainder of the fixture.

They nearly found another with less than five minutes to go, as Lineth Beerensteyn broke through the defence and found Chastity Grant, only for her shot to be heroically cleared off the line by Lily Woodham.

Ultimately, the Netherlands had to settle for a 3-0 victory, which propels them to the top of Group D, ahead of England’s match against France later in the evening.

Jonker will take great pride in his team’s performance, showcasing their attacking prowess while also achieving their first clean sheet in ten matches, marking a stellar start to their Euro campaign.

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