Before EURO 2024, the Netherlands were undefeated, easily defeating a determined Icelandic team.

Ronald Koeman declared a strong team as the Oranje hosted Iceland six days before their tournament started with a match against Poland; most of his starting lineup is anticipated to be picked again on Sunday.

It paid off as his team controlled the ball for much of the first half, creating plenty of chances and taking a well-earned lead halfway through. Denzel Dumfries headed cross was converted by PSG prospect Xavi Simons for his first goal in Netherlands colours, setting the stage for what could be a major tournament for the 21-year-old.

Iceland remained unflinching in the face of their consistent superiority, trailed by just one goal at halftime. That quickly changed in the second half as Virgil van Dijk doubled his team’s lead with a set piece conversion on a loose ball.

Although they didn’t pose much of a danger, Iceland did manage to get their first attempt on goal after 70 minutes when Bart Verbruggen deflected Stefan Thordarson’s shot onto the post.

But ten minutes later, substitute Donyell Malen raced onto a wonderfully weighted through pass and fired a third past Valdimarsson to complete the victory, ending their slim hopes of a comeback.

Shortly after, they were denied a fourth goal when Memphis Depay and fellow substitute Jeremie Frimpong connected for the latter’s goal, but VAR disallowed it because of a handball during the build-up.

When Malen squared the ball for Wout Weghorst, who finished coolly, deep into injury time, they scored their fourth goal, but the offside flag was raised. Again, VAR intervened, but this time it was in the hosts’ advantage, glossing over the score.