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Xtra Time Web Desk: In a thrilling Euro Cup 2024 Quarter Final at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, the Netherlands faced off against Türkiye in a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The game was a spectacle of skill, strategy, and dramatic turns, culminating in a 2-1 victory for the Netherlands.

The first half was tightly contested, with both teams showcasing their defensive prowess and looking for opportunities to break through. It was Türkiye who struck first in the 35th minute, taking advantage of a set-piece. After a corner kick was initially headed away at the near post, Arda Güler swiftly regained possession and delivered a pinpoint cross into the six-yard box. There, S. Akaydin rose above the Dutch defenders to head the ball back across goal, leaving the Dutch goalkeeper, Bart Verbruggen, with no chance. The Turkish supporters erupted in celebration as their team took a 1-0 lead.

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The Netherlands, undeterred by the setback, pressed forward with renewed determination. Their efforts paid off in the second half, specifically in the 55th minute, when they equalized through a well-executed corner routine. Memphis Depay and Marten de Roon played a quick one-two from a short corner, with Depay then sending a superb cross into the box. S. de Vrij met it with a powerful header, sending the ball into the net and giving Altay Bayındır no chance to save it. The Dutch fans roared with approval as their team leveled the score at 1-1.

As the match progressed, both teams fought hard to gain the upper hand. The decisive moment came in the 75th minute, in an unexpected turn of events. Cody Gakpo's initial attempt from the left side was cleared, but the Netherlands retained possession and launched another attack from the right. Denzel Dumfries' low cross flashed across the face of the goal, where Gakpo’s effort took a deflection off M. Müldür and ended up in Türkiye's own net. This own goal handed the Netherlands a crucial 2-1 lead.

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The tension continued to build as Türkiye sought to equalize. However, their efforts were hampered in the dying moments of the match when B. Ö. Yıldırım, who had been a substitute, was shown a red card in the 90+6th minute for dissent towards the referee. This dismissal added to Türkiye's woes and effectively ended their hopes of a comeback.

The final whistle confirmed the Netherlands' 2-1 victory, securing their place in the semifinals. The match was a testament to the resilience and tactical acumen of the Dutch side, while Türkiye showed commendable spirit and determination. As the Euro Cup 2024 progresses, fans will eagerly anticipate the next challenge for the Netherlands, while Türkiye will reflect on what might have been.