Minus their record scorer, the Netherlands instead mustered a wonderful goal. The issue for the holders was that it was required to earn them victory against the tournament’s ultimate underdogs. The chances are that absent Vivianne Miedema, who was ruled out by Covid, would have admired Danielle van de Donk’s spectacular decider. Maybe it took something special to defeat a spirited Portuguese side but, while they have seemed luckless amid injuries and illness, the Netherlands’ defence of their title has been unconvincing so far. And, indeed, their defence was unconvincing as Portugal mounted a second comeback in as many games.
This contained too much drama for the Netherlands’ liking, but it was evidence of Portugal’s irrepressible streak. Late additions to the tournament, when Russia were expelled, they are becoming one of the stories of it. Once again, they went 2-0 down and responded to draw level. This time, however, it was not enough to earn them a point and they will need to beat Sweden to avoid an early exit while the Dutch have one foot in the quarter-finals. They may nevertheless envy their former manager, Sarina Wiegman, who has twin wins including an 8-0 thrashing so far. Her successor, Mark Parsons, had an altogether nervier evening as his side threatened to pay for their profligacy and defensive shortcomings.
