Netherlands Captain Criticizes Referee Following Controversial Penalty Decision in Euro 2024

Netherlands captain, Virgil van Dijk, has expressed his frustration towards referee Felix Zwayer following a controversial penalty decision during the Euro 2024 semi-final clash between the Netherlands and England.

The contentious penalty incident, heavily criticized by Van Dijk and others, occurred in the first half of the match which ended in a 2-1 victory for England.

During halftime, former England player, Gary Neville, also voiced his opinion on the penalty decision that stirred controversy and divided opinions.

Van Dijk’s disappointment was further fueled by the referee’s hasty exit at full-time, leaving the Dutch captain feeling the decision lacked accountability and transparency.

Following a stunning strike by Xavi Simons, England was awarded a last-minute penalty after a collision between Harry Kane and Denzel Dumfries, a moment that prompted VAR intervention and eventually led to Kane’s equalizer.

Post-match, Van Dijk suggested that Zwayer’s quick departure from the pitch signaled acknowledgment of a potential mistake, emphasizing the emotional toll of the loss on the Dutch team’s Euro 2024 dreams.

In a contrasting stance, Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman refrained from directly criticizing Zwayer, opting instead to acknowledge his team’s valiant effort throughout the tournament.

Koeman praised the Dutch players for their resilience and performance, expressing pride in their journey despite the heartbreak of defeat against England, who secured their spot in the Euro 2024 final to face Spain.