The Netherlands’ display of grit and passion to beat Turkey 2-1 in their Euro 2024 quarter-final on Saturday was something to be proud of, manager Ronald Koeman said.

The often circumspect Koeman said it was a statement performance from his players who needed to silence the critics who had questioned their effort and commitment.

“We had to suffer but there is not an easy one in a tournament like this. The players put everything tonight (Saturday), it was really an emotional match and they showed a big heart,” Koeman told a press conference.

“Sometimes we get critiques about that, that we don’t have that compared to other nations. And the players showed a big heart after going one nil down and made a good second half.”

It was the first time the Netherlands reached a Euro semi-final in 20 years and they have fond memories of the last time the European Championship was hosted in Germany — their victory in the 1988 final remains their only major tournament success.

Koeman, a defender in the 1988-winning side packed with individual talent such as Ruud Gullit and Marco van Basten, said the strength of his team was their depth.

“I think for the whole nation it’s something special,” Koeman said.

“We are a small nation and we are part of the semi-finals with England, France and Spain... We are really proud to get the opportunity to play for a spot in the final on Wednesday.

“England have good players, but we have too. We play in Dortmund, in one of the most beautiful stadiums, closer to the Netherlands, maybe that also makes a difference.”

Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk was also proud of the team. “How is my heart? It’s fine. This is very important and very beautiful, with such a crowd. We knew there would be a lot of Turks in the stadium, but I’m proud of these guys.”

Gakpo factor

One of the key aspects of Netherlands’ come-from-behind win was the attacking prowess of Cody Gakpo.

It was Gakpo’s drive towards the goal in the 76th minute, sprinting in at the far post to connect with a low cross, that forced Turkey’s Mert Muldur to send the ball into his own net.

“He is strong. He’s playing at a great level this tournament. He’s maybe been our most important player up to now and I hope the rest of my team can come up to his level,” Koeman said.

Gakpo has blossomed on the left wing at the tournament, a position which he had played at PSV Eindhoven before his move to Liverpool in late 2022, while his Premier League form towards the end of the season seems to have carried over to the Euros.

The Dutch will be relying on his speed down the wing when they take on England.