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Despite both teams holding identical group stage records of three wins and one loss (the Netherlands finishing second, Czech Republic third), the Dutch entered this clash as heavy favorites, a tag they ultimately lived up to. The Czechs held their own for the first half of the match, but then the Netherlands showcased why they are two-time European vice-champions.
With this victory, the Netherlands has set up a quarter-final showdown with Serbia, with a spot in the semi-finals on the line. It's worth noting that Serbia, the most successful team in World Cup history with six gold medals, has been brilliant in this tournament so far. They dominated their group, defeating Austria, Madagascar, Spain, and Australia. The match against the Netherlands, the reigning Olympic champions, will undoubtedly be the Eagles' toughest challenge yet in the tournament.
Recall that Lithuania, Germany, and the United States also secured direct qualification to the quarter-finals. The winner of the Serbia vs. Netherlands match will face the victor of the Lithuania vs. play-in winner (either Latvia or New Zealand) clash in the semi-finals.
VIDEO: This is the moment Serbia lost gold at the European Championship
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