Jong Oranje suffered a painful defeat on Sunday in the second group match at the European Championship in Slovakia. Michael Reiziger’s team lost 1-2 to Jong Denmark and can no longer afford a mistake.
Jong Oranje took the lead after nineteen minutes in Stadión Tatran. Ruben van Bommel appeared in the penalty area and saw the ball end up in the goal via Oliver Provstgaard after a pinball situation: 1-0.
Before half-time, the Danes equalized. Ajacied Anton Gaaei passed the ball to Oliver Sørensen, who delivered a hard cross. William Osula was in the right place to head the 1-1 past goalkeeper Robin Roefs.
Shortly after the break, the Danes even took the lead. Osula pushed the ball in from close range, scoring his second goal of the evening. It was his third goal of this tournament.
Jong Oranje tried to fight their way back into the match and forced many chances, but striker Noah Ohio was not sharp. Kenneth Taylor hit the crossbar and Ernest Poku later hit the post. It remained 1-2.
Important match with Jong Ukraine
Due to the defeat, Jong Oranje is in a bad position in Group D. The Netherlands disappointingly drew 2-2 against Finland on Thursday and now has one point from two matches.
Jong Oranje must win against Jong Ukraine on Wednesday in the final group match to qualify for the quarter-finals. The Ukrainians won 0-2 against Jong Finland earlier in the day.
Reiziger’s team is dependent on the result of Jong Denmark-Jong Finland, which is played at the same time, if they win against Jong Ukraine. The Finns could still keep the Netherlands below them on goal difference.