The Netherlands became the first side to reach the semi-finals of the European Under-21 championship when they beat Portugal 2-1 in their Group A tie in Groningen on Wednesday.
The Dutch took the lead in the 33rd minute through Ryan Babel's penalty, awarded after goalkeeper Ribeiro had brought down Maceo Rigters.
Portugal upped the pressure in the second half only for Rigters to add a second goal in the 75th minute. Two minutes later Miquel Veloso scored for Portugal from a free kick but the Dutch held on.
Earlier, Belgium overcame Israel 1-0 in another Group A tie in Heerenveen.
Despite being reduced to 10 men after 18 minutes when Marouane Fellaini was sent off for a second yellow card, Belgium defended well and scored the only goal when Kevin Mirallas outran Israeli defender Dekel Keinan to slot home in the 82nd minute.
Netherlands have six points from their opening two games, Belgium have four points and Portugal one. Israel prop up the group.
© 2024 Rediff.com -