Dutch, Swiss and Romania qualify for Euro 2024

Just one goal was enough to ensure the Dutch joined France in qualifying from Group B with a 1-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland. Wout Weghorst's powerful drive separated the sides in Amsterdam in what is likely to be Irish boss Stephen Kenny's final competitive game in charge.

"In the end, it's about winning the game. We knew we needed the three points to qualify directly today, at home with our own fans. We created a lot of chances, opportunities, but we have to score more goals and have more finesse in the final third," said Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo.

Romania reached just a second major tournament since 2008 by ending Israel's chances of automatic qualification with a 2-1 win.

Despite being forced to play what should have been a home fixture in Hungary due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, Israel went in front after just two minutes through Eran Zahavi.

But Romania hit back quickly to level through George Puscas and secured their place in Germany thanks to Ianis Hagi, son of Gheorghe Hagi who inspired the Romanians famous run to the 1994 World Cup quarter-finals.

 

November 18, 2023

Switzerland also qualified despite being held 1-1 at home by Kosovo. Romania are now in pole position to win Group I with a draw at home to the Swiss on Tuesday enough to secure top spot.

Wales' hopes of reaching a third consecutive European Championship were dealt a huge blow by a 1-1 draw away to Armenia. Rob Page's men began the day with automatic qualification in their own hands.

But Wales fell behind early on to Lucas Zelarayan's strike from outside the box in Yerevan. Nair Tiknizyan's own goal brought the visitors level before half-time, but Wales failed to find a winner that leaves them needing Croatia to slip up.

The 2022 World Cup semi-finalists moved into second place in Group D thanks to a 2-0 win in Latvia as Lovro Majer and Andrej Kramaric struck inside the first 16 minutes. Wales must beat already-qualified Turkey in Cardiff on Tuesday and hope Croatia fail to beat Armenia at home.

 

November 18, 2023