June 21, (THEWILL)- There were few matters left to resolve in Group C going into its final day of fixtures at the Euros 2020. North Macedonia, as the whipping boys of the group and without a point after the first two games, were definitely out. But on Monday, facing group leaders, Netherlands, the Macedonians were determined to put on a show.
It was going to be one of the final appearances for Goran Pandev, playing in his 122nd international game of a glorious national and international career. For what it was worth, the Macedonians began with a spring in their steps. In the 22nd minute, Aleksandar Trajkovski even smacked a firm shot from the edge of the box against the post.
It was their fragility in defense, which had been their Achilles heel from the onset of the continental competition that did them in again against the Dutch. And, it was a weak link that was fully exploited by their illustrious opponents.
The constant troublemaker Donyell Malen sent the new Barcelona signing Memphis Depay flying forward on the break in the 24th minute. They both played a one-two for the Barca man to complete one of the best moves of the tournament with his 28th international goal to break the deadlock.
Netherlands returned from the break with the resolve to add to the Macedonian deficit. Georginio Wijnaldum was the perfect foil for the objective and Depay was involved again. It was his pass that Wijnaldum needed to score his 25th international goal from close range after Depay had done all the work.
Wijnaldum was not finished yet as he followed it up with his brace for the day. The Dutch captain only had to control a loose ball and bury it after the Macedonian keeper, Stole Dimitrievski’s parrying of another Depay’s shot fell kindly for him.
By this time, the game was over as a contest and yet the Oranje could have scored more if Wout Weghorst did not hit the bar seconds after coming on for Depay. There will be more chances for them to score as they carry a perfect three wins in three into the next round as group leaders.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
