The Netherlands, Switzerland, and Romania have all secured their places at Euro 2024 after a thrilling weekend of qualification matches. Meanwhile, France set a new record for the biggest-ever win in European Championship qualifying with a 14-0 rout of Gibraltar.
Netherlands Secure Qualification
The Netherlands needed a win over Ireland to be sure of qualifying, and they did not disappoint. Wout Weghorst put the Dutch ahead in the 12th minute with a powerful shot into the top corner. Despite having 18 shots to Ireland’s three, the Netherlands were unable to score again, but it was enough to secure their place at the European Championship.
Switzerland Continue Major Tournament Streak
Switzerland drew 1-1 with Kosovo to ensure their qualification and extend their run of not missing any major tournament since Euro 2012. Ruben Vargas headed in a deflected ball in the 47th minute to give Switzerland the lead, but Kosovo’s Muhamet Hyseni leveled the score with a shot off the post in the 82nd minute. The draw was Switzerland’s fifth in six games, and in all of those draws, they have conceded at least one goal after the 80th minute.
Romania Qualify for First Major Tournament Since 2016
Romania secured their first major tournament since 2016 after missing the last European Championship despite being one of the host nations. They defeated third-place Israel 2-1, coming back from Eran Zahavi’s early goal to win with strikes from George Pușcaș and Ianis Hagi.
France Set Record with 14-0 Thrashing
In a remarkable display of attacking prowess, France set a new record for the biggest-ever win in European Championship qualifying with a 14-0 demolition of Gibraltar. Kylian Mbappe scored a hat-trick, while nine other French players found the back of the net, with one own-goal for good measure. France’s previous biggest win was a 10-0 victory over Azerbaijan in 1995.
Additional Data:
The Netherlands has qualified for Euro 2024 for the 16th time.
Switzerland has qualified for Euro 2024 for the sixth time.
Romania has qualified for Euro 2024 for the fifth time.
France has qualified for Euro 2024 for the 16th time.
Kylian Mbappe is now France’s all-time leading goalscorer.
Additional Insights:
The Netherlands, Switzerland, and Romania will all be hoping to make a deep run at Euro 2024.
France’s 14-0 win is a testament to their attacking firepower.
The qualification process for Euro 2024 has been highly competitive.
