Netherlands earn win over Portugal at UEFA Women's Euros

The Netherlands have one foot in the quarter-final of Euro 2022 after beating Portugal 3-2 in a roller coaster game in Group C. The reigning champions, without four of their best players, surrendered a two-goal lead before Danielle van de Donk scored a wonder goal to finally see off their resilient opponents.
Dutch boss Mark Parsons was forced to make changes to the side that drew 1-1 with Sweden after he lost his goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal and centre-back Aniek Nouwen to injury, while star players Jackie Groenen and Vivianne Miedema had tested positive for Covid-19.
Despite the upheaval, Netherlands took an early lead with Damaris Egurrola, on her first start in the competition, taking full advantage of the opportunity with a superb header.
It was deja-vu for Portugal as they conceded two early goals, just like they did in their 2-2 draw with Switzerland, as they were undone by another corner, Stefanie van der Gragt heading home after a string of defensive mistakes. Remarkably, the Netherlands almost scored from a hat-trick of corners as the excellent Sherida Spitse picked out Van der Gragt once more only this time Carole Costa intervened, clearing her effort off the line.
It took a moment of magic from Van de Donk to win the Netherlands the match, the Lyon attacker leaving goalkeeper Ines Pereira with no chance with a scorching shot from the edge of the box to put the Netherlands 3-2 up – a goal that was against the run of play somewhat. The win takes the Dutch level with Sweden on four points, while Portugal and Switzerland have a point apiece ahead of the final group game. The Netherlands have Switzerland on Sunday while Portugal meet Sweden on the same day.