The highly anticipated Euro 2024 clash between the Netherlands and France ended in a 0-0 draw, marking the tournament’s first goalless match, but the game was far from uneventful. A controversial VAR decision to disallow a Netherlands goal sparked debate, while France, playing without their injured talisman Kylian Mbappe, struggled to convert their opportunities.
France, noticeably lacking Mbappe’s explosive pace and clinical finishing after his nose injury sustained against Austria, created numerous chances but failed to capitalize. However, it was the Netherlands who were left feeling most aggrieved after a second-half strike from Xavi Simons was ruled out in contentious circumstances.
Simons, the young Dutch midfielder, unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box that flew into the net, seemingly putting his side ahead. However, referee Anthony Taylor immediately disallowed the goal, citing an obstruction on French goalkeeper Mike Maignan by Denzel Dumfries. Dumfries was indeed in an offside position as the shot was taken, and deemed to be interfering with the goalkeeper despite not directly touching the ball.
The decision was then subjected to a lengthy VAR review. After examining multiple angles, the video assistant referee upheld the on-field decision, denying the Netherlands what appeared to be a legitimate goal. The Dutch players and fans were left frustrated by the verdict, arguing that Dumfries did not actively impede Maignan’s ability to save the shot.
Despite the disallowed goal controversy, France arguably should have been ahead earlier in the match. Antoine Griezmann, in particular, endured a frustrating night in front of goal, squandering several clear-cut opportunities. In the first half, Griezmann missed a golden chance from close range after being teed up by Adrien Rabiot, who himself might have considered shooting. Later, Griezmann directed another promising opportunity wide of the target and then, following excellent build-up play from N’Golo Kante, could only muster a tame shot straight at Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman introduced veteran striker Wout Weghorst, the hero of their opening game against Poland, in the latter stages of the match, hoping for a repeat performance. However, this time Weghorst could not find the breakthrough, and the game concluded in a scoreless draw.
The result leaves both Netherlands and France level on four points at the top of Group D. Meanwhile, Poland’s defeat earlier in the day confirmed their elimination from Euro 2024. The stalemate ensures that the race to qualify from Group D remains wide open heading into the final round of group matches.
