Sun Nov 17 04:23:15 IST 2024: ## Netherlands Cruise to Nations League Quarter-Finals After Dramatic Start

**Amsterdam** – The Netherlands secured their place in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals with a convincing 4-0 victory over Hungary in a match overshadowed by a medical emergency. The game was suspended for 13 minutes early on when Hungary’s assistant coach, Adam Szalai, collapsed and required resuscitation pitchside. Szalai, 36, regained consciousness and was taken to hospital, where his condition was later reported as stable by the Hungarian FA.

Following the stoppage, referee Jesús Gil Manzano awarded a penalty to the Netherlands after reviewing a handball incident that occurred before the medical emergency. Wout Weghorst converted the penalty, opening the scoring. A second penalty, awarded after Donyell Malen was fouled, was converted by Cody Gakpo, giving the Dutch a comfortable 2-0 lead at half-time.

The second half saw Denzel Dumfries add a stunning volley to the tally, followed by a late header from Teun Koopmeiners to secure a 4-0 victory. While pleased with the result, Dutch coach Ronald Koeman criticized his team’s second-half performance, noting a drop in tempo and intensity. He highlighted the return of Frenkie de Jong from injury as a positive.

In the group’s other match, Germany’s 7-0 thrashing of Bosnia and Herzegovina confirmed their top spot and relegated Bosnia and Herzegovina, who will host the Netherlands in their final group game on Tuesday.

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