'They keep changing things,': Controversy erupts as Virgil van Dijk questions referees in NED vs ENG

With a 2-1 score, England triumphally defeated the Netherlands in an exciting UEFA Euro 2024 semi-final game. With a goal by Xavi Simons in the seventh minute, the Netherlands led early; yet, England reacted fast as Harry Kane converted a penalty in the eighteenth minute. England entered the final after Ollie Watkins scored the winning goal in the 90th minute, therefore keeping the game fierce until the last moments. England will now face Spain in the UEFA Euro 2024 final following this incredible victory.

Also Read: 'It was a failure...': Kylian Mbappe Reflects on France's UEFA Euro 2024 Semifinal Defeat to Spain

Netherlands’ captain Virgil van Dijk criticizes referees actions in the UEFA Euro 2024 semifinal 

After the Dutch were eliminated from Euro 2024 on Wednesday, July 10, star Virgil van Dijk of the Netherlands voiced his displeasure with the referee. In the semi-finals, England beat the Dutch 2-1 to advance to the final.

After the game, van Dijk spoke with beIN Sports to discuss the outcome and the referee's decision to award a controversial penalty to England in the first half. He accused Zwayer of being biased and favoring England. Virgil van Dijk said: 

“It says it all that the ref went in quite quickly after the game and I had no time to shake his hand. But listen; it is what it is. The game is done. We lost. It's very tough to take. Certain moments, it was obvious that it should have gone our way. It didn't. It's always tough,”

"They [referees] keep changing certain things. Small changes that could have big impacts, but maybe it's a good thing that they could be held accountable as well. Let them come here and speak to you guys and explain themselves in certain moments, like we have to explain ourselves when we do something wrong as well. I think that might be something."

England will now be seen in action for one last time in the UEFA Euro 2024 final against Spain. The match will be played at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Sunday, July 14, 2024.