Confidence returns as Netherlands beat China 4-1

The Netherlands showcased their resilience and attacking prowess by coming back from a halftime deficit to secure an emphatic 4-1 victory over China in a women’s football friendly in Rotterdam on Friday. The match, held at the Sparta Rotterdam stadium, drew a lively crowd of approximately 10,000 spectators eager to see their 11th-ranked team in action against 18th-ranked China. Dig deeper with Nowgoal now!

Key Takeaways:

• Youthful Brilliance: Wieke Kaptein’s first international goal was a standout moment, showcasing the depth and potential of the Dutch squad.
• Impactful Substitutions: The contributions from Jill Roord, Esmee Brugts, and Lineth Beerensteyn highlight the team’s strength in depth and tactical flexibility.
• Building Momentum: This comeback victory provides a morale boost for the Netherlands as they prepare to face the United States and gear up for a competitive 2025 campaign.

First Half: A Surprising Setback for the Netherlands

Women, The home side began the match with energy, dominating possession and creating early chances. Lotte Keukelaar came close to scoring in the opening moments, connecting with a well-placed cross from Chimera Ripa. However, her header was impressively saved by China’s goalkeeper Xu Huan, who had a solid first half.

Despite the Netherlands’ offensive pressure, it was China who broke the deadlock. In the 34th minute, Dutch goalkeeper Lize Kop misjudged a pass, allowing Chinese midfielder Jin Kun to intercept and take full advantage of the mistake. Kun calmly beat defender Ilse van der Zanden in a one-on-one, slotting the ball into the net and giving China a surprising 1-0 lead. The Dutch team went into halftime trailing, with frustration evident as their efforts to equalize repeatedly fell short.

Second Half: A Dominant Comeback

The Netherlands returned to the field with renewed determination, and their efforts quickly paid off. In the 66th minute, 19-year-old Chelsea midfielder Wieke Kaptein stepped up to deliver a crucial equalizer. Assisted by Chimera Ripa, Kaptein scored her first international goal with a composed finish, sparking jubilant celebrations among the Dutch fans.

The momentum shifted entirely in favor of the Netherlands as substitutes played a pivotal role in the turnaround. Jill Roord, brought on in the second half, put the Dutch ahead in the 72nd minute with a precise low shot from inside the penalty area, leaving the Chinese defense scrambling.

With their confidence surging, the Netherlands pressed for more goals. Esmee Brugts, another substitute, extended the lead with a powerful finish in the closing minutes. Lineth Beerensteyn then capped off the night with a fourth goal, sealing a commanding victory for the home side.

Looking Ahead: A Tough Test Awaits

The Netherlands will face a formidable challenge in their next match as they host the United States, the four-time world champions, in The Hague on Tuesday. This friendly marks the final game of the year for the 

Dutch team, who will shift their focus to competitive action in 2025. The UEFA Women’s Nations League begins in February, followed by the highly anticipated UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, scheduled to take place from July 2 to July 27 in Switzerland.

The Bottom Line

The Netherlands’ 4-1 comeback win over China showcased their resilience and depth, with young stars and impactful substitutes shining. This performance, according to Nowgoal, builds momentum as they prepare for a tough test against the USA and major tournaments in 2025.