Van Dijk Fires Late Penalty Winner as Netherlands Edge Greece in Euro 2024 Qualifier

Van Dijk Fires Late Penalty Winner as Netherlands Edge Greece in Euro 2024 Qualifier

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk was the Netherlands’ hero as he scored a crucial 93rd-minute penalty to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory over Greece in Euro 2024 qualifying on Thursday.

Van Dijk showed nerves of steel to convert the spot-kick after Denzel Dumfries was fouled in the box, edging the Dutch up to second place in Group B.

The late goal sparked wild celebrations and sees the Netherlands move level on points with third-placed Greece, but ahead on head-to-head record after beating them twice.

If Louis van Gaal’s side can now defeat Republic of Ireland and Gibraltar in their final two qualifiers, they will seal qualification for next summer’s tournament in Germany.

Greece coach Gus Poyet was sent off for his furious protests after van Dijk’s penalty, which leaves his side’s hopes hanging by a thread.

Van Dijk held his nerve in a pressure moment to give the Netherlands a crucial victory that puts them on the verge of reaching Euro 2024.

The Liverpool star once again proved his value at both ends of the pitch with a towering defensive display before grabbing the decisive goal.

His 93rd-minute penalty could prove pivotal as the Netherlands aim to book their place in Germany next summer.