The two-times champions Norway must beat Denmark on Monday to avoid elimination from the Women’s Euro 2017 after a shock 2-0 defeat by Belgium.
Norway lost against the hosts, Holland, in their opening game and Belgium yesterday celebrated their first win in the tournament’s history after second-half goals from Elke van Gorp, who made the most of a goalkeeping error on the hour, and Janice Cayman, who was left unmarked in the area to head home a long throw in the 67th minute.
“The players had to win – it was part of the learning process playing in such a tournament,” said the Belgium coach, Ives Serneels. More than 6,000 Belgium fans travelled for the match in Breda.
Holland beat Denmark 1-0 after withstanding a fierce comeback by the Danes in the second period, but their six points do not yet guarantee qualification.
“It’s a strange, mixed feeling,” said the Dutch coach, Sarina Wiegman, after the victory in Rotterdam. Holland play Belgium in their final group game needing a point to qualify.
Holland dominated the first half and deservedly took the lead through Sherida Spitse, who struck from the penalty spot after Danielle van de Donk was fouled. But they had their goalkeeper, Arsenal’s Sari van Veenendaal, to thank for preserving their lead as she denied the Danish attack repeatedly after the break.
“We created some chances to score, but the Dutch goalkeeper had a great night and made some great saves,” said the Denmark coach, Nils Nielsen.
“The way the Dutch played is part of their football culture. They play the same football as the men’s team and I like to watch that.”
