Three Plus One: Netherlands vs. New Zealand

Embed from Getty Images

Dutch fortunate to win while Ferns desperately unlucky.

It was an exciting 0-0 match most of the way until Jill Roord’s header found the net in second half stoppage time. Prior to that, both teams had golden chances to go ahead and maybe win the game, but in the end, the European champions snagged all three points while New Zealand still looks for their first Women’s World Cup win.

1. Subs prove the difference

All three subs for Netherlands played a part in the match winner. Merel van Dongen set up Lineth Beerensteyn who flicked it to Roord for the only score. of the match. They needed that goal as their fearsome four of Lieke Martens (Barcelona), VivianneMiedema (Arsenal), Shanice van de Sanden (Lyon) and Danielle van de Donk (Arsenal) all struggled to find net against a game New Zealand side.

2. Also a cast of thousands

Over 5,000 Dutch fans made the trip to Le Havre and double that is expected in Valenciennes against Cameroon on Saturday. It’s nice to see the Dutch get behind this team, especially after the success of the Women’s Euro 2017.

“It is incredible to have this kind of support, I love it. It gives [us]a lot of extra energy. I hope they keep coming all summer long,” Miedema said after the game.

3. Ferns so unlucky

We can’t over emphasize this enough. They did well on counter attacks, but not as well in finishing those chances. Olivia Chance struck the crossbar, Rosie White (formerly of the Red Stars) had a great chance, and a better touch by Sarah Gregorius would have had New Zealand in front. You feel/hope there is a win in this team and that they might sneak through to the knockout round. We’ll see Saturday in Grenoble (2pm CT, FS2).

The Plus One:  It’s still a Dutch treat.

The Dutch have been enjoying great results from both the men and the women (Sunday’s UEFA Nations League Final not withstanding). The Dutch are filling the role of the team having a party very well so far in France. They are proving themselves to be one of the dark horses and will have a chance to enhance their credentials against Cameroon and Canada.