This archive report was first published on 30 June 2019.
On Saturday, the Netherlands secured their first-ever World Cup semi-final appearance with a 2-0 win over Italy at the Stade du Hainaut.
The Dutch team, led by coach Sarina Wiegman, stepped up their game in the second half, earning headers from Vivianne Miedema and Stefanie van der Gragt.
Italy had the better of chances in the first half, but the European champions' improved performance after the break led to both goals coming from quality set-piece deliveries by Sherida Spitse.
With the win, the Netherlands will face the winners of Saturday's other quarter-final between Germany and Sweden, who play later in Rennes.
Defending World Cup champions the United States will face England in the opening semi-final on Tuesday in Lyon, while the second semi will take place on Wednesday.
Despite initial struggles, the Dutch team found their footing and created openings against Italy's well-marshaled defense.
Italy's captain Sara Gama led the defense, but the Dutch team's introduction of Lineth Beerensteyn helped them step up the tempo.
Spitse's set-piece deliveries proved crucial, with Miedema and Van Der Gragt scoring headers in the 70th and 80th minutes, respectively.
Italy had nothing left in the tank, and the Dutch team cruised to a 2-0 win, securing their semi-final spot.
"I didn't expect to be in the semi-finals of this World Cup," said Miedema. "We've been complaining that we're not playing the best football, but in the end, we're in the semis. We've done amazing, and we can be really proud," she added.
Italy's coach, Milena Bertolini, expressed pride in her team's achievement, stating that they had discovered and appreciated the women's game back home.
"The women's game has been discovered and appreciated back home, so it's a big deal. I believe the girls have a greater confidence and awareness of what great players they are," she said.
"They need to be proud of themselves. The way they played and approached matches and their passion, they've shown people back home that football can be a sport where you have enjoyment, helping one another, unity, and all these values. I think that's why the public have fallen in love with this team," Bertolini added.
