Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has reacted after Austria produced a hugely impressive performance in their 3-2 win over the Netherlands to progress to the last 16 as Group D winners.
Despite facing tough opponents in the Netherlands and France, Ralf Rangnick’s team managed to secure two victories out of their three matches.
The Netherlands had already secured their place in the round of 16, but they will progress as one of the best third-placed teams, with France securing second place.
The Dutch fell behind early on due to a Donyell Malen own goal in the sixth minute, but Cody Gakpo equalized with his second goal of the tournament.
Austria regained the lead just before the hour mark when Romano Schmid headed in a cross that deflected off Stefan de Vrij.
The Netherlands levelled the score for the second time in the match when Memphis Depay controlled a headed pass and lofted the ball into the net.
However, Austria secured the victory with a late winner, as Marcel Sabitzer struck from a tight angle to seal the win.
WHAT DID VIRGIL VAN DIJK SAY AFTER THE DEFEAT TO AUSTRIA?
Speaking after the game, the Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk said: “We started the match weakly, in possession of the ball and in our duels.
“Then you are behind the game. We lacked energy. We talked about it at halftime.
“This is incomprehensible, at a finals tournament.
“I have no explanation for this at the moment.
“We all have to do a lot more for this is bad.
“If we want to achieve something at this European Championship, something has to change very quickly.
“We are all responsible for this.”
Gakpo also added: “We were not happy. Hard words from the coach and the players.
“Maybe sharpness, we still have to see it again. If we knew, we would change it.
“We didn’t start well, not sharp. We didn’t get around to playing football.
“It went better in the second half, but it wasn’t enough.”
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