Whilst for many top tier European countries the introduction of a top three placed qualification system for this years Euro’s has made for plain sailing, Holland’s passage to France 2016 however has been reminiscent of a high speed car crash.
Firm favorites after an impressive 2014 World Cup under Louis Van Gaal, Holland’s hopes of qualifying were viciously dashed after a hugely embarrassing 3-0 defeat at the hands of Turkey.
In Danny Blind’s second game in charge following the departure of Dutch coaching legend Gus Hiddink, a Netherlands side featuring Robin Van Person, Daley Blind, Wesley Sneijder and Memphis Depay fell flat during a must win tie, struggling to deal with an inspired Ardan Turan.
The Barcelona man set up former Holland youth international Oguzhan Ozyakup for the opener with just 8 minutes played, later the skilfull midfielder added a second for his side after finishing past a worryingly wobbly Cillessen at the near post.
Just when it seemed it couldn’t get any worse for Blind’s side, a comically defended third in the final minutes summed up a disastrous campaign for the 1988 champions.
Whilst it’s all looking rather gloomy, wins in their final two group games along with a large favour from Turkey could see them achieve a play-off place. Looking at a side as deflated as this, you wouldn’t bet on it.
To put a upbeat twist on it, it’s nice of Holland to self-destruct before the inevitable mid tournament blow up. A real time saver right there.
