The Netherlands remembers 1988, Turkey dreams of 2008

After the EURO 2008, Turkey and the Netherlands are once more in the continental tournament quarter-final. Back then, the Dutchmen lost to Russia, whereas Turkey continued their journey and eventually won third place. Of course, the Oranje still remember 1988 when they won their only major trophy being led on the pitch by their today's manager, among others. The winner of tonight's clash (10 pm) will face the winner of the England-Switzerland match in the next round.

The Three Lions' roar or the Swiss knives' cut

The Netherlands have performed better at World Cups than European Championships, but Cody Gakpo's outstanding form allows them to dream of another continental trophy. On the other hand, Turkey reached major tournament semi-finals twice so far. Once at 2002 World Cup led by Şenol Güneş and at the aforementioned EURO 2008 when Fatih Terim was in charge. All eyes are now on Vincenzo Montella, who is to show whether he is ready to join these two legends of Turkish football.

The Dutchmen were not so convincing in the group stage, noting a narrow victory over Poland, a goalless draw against France and a surprising defeat by Austria. Although they advanced from the third spot, the knockout phase draw couldn't have been better for the Oranje. They've beaten Romania without a hitch in the round of 16, mainly thanks to Gakpo and Donyell Malen.

Ronald Koeman wants to become only the second man to win EURO as a player and a coach. So far, only the German Berti Vogts has managed to achieve that, and France boss Didier Deschamps still has a chance for this accomplishment, though. Xavi Simons has shown potential, Gakpo is lurking the Golden Boot, while the experienced Wout Weghorts awaits his opportunity from the bench. Interestingly, the Turk Ferdi Kadıoğlu moved through all the youth categories of the Netherlands but will face his old teammates tonight in a red and white jersey.

Turkey stands in the way. The triumph over Austria in the round of 16 sent the message to all rivals that Turkey should never be underestimated. The defender, Merih Demiral, became a national hero, scoring a brace, while the goalkeeper, Mert Günok, made the save of the tournament in added time. Montella can't count on suspended Demiral, but the captain Hakan Çalhanoğlu and the midfielder Orkun Kökçü return to the squad. The Italian will also heavily rely on the pair of youngsters - Arda Güler and Kenan Yıldız. The immense support from the stands, where Turkish fans have been the most numerous, cannot be neglected in matches like this either.

Jude amnestied for his sin, Turkish hero not so lucky

Tonight's duel will be the 15th between these rivals. The Netherlands won six, Turkey four, and they drew four times. However, they have never faced each other at major tournaments. The last time they played was in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, where both teams won their home games - Turkey 4-2 in Istanbul and the Netherlands 6-1 in Amsterdam.

EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP - 1/4 FINALS

Friday

Spain - Germany 2-1 (0-0) AET

/Olmo 52, Merino 119 - Wirtz 89/

Portugal - France 3-5 on pen (0-0)

Saturday

19:00: (2.35) England (3.20) Switzerland (3.55)

22:00: (1.65) Netherlands (4.10) Turkey (5.80)

***odds are subject to change***