Miedema Hits Historic 100 as Ruthless Netherlands Sweep Past Wales in Euro 2025 Opener
Vivianne Miedema reached a century of international goals as the Netherlands cruised past Wales 3-0 in the opening match of UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, spoiling the Welsh side’s major tournament debut in Lucerne.
The Arsenal striker, currently playing for Manchester City, curled in a stunning opener just before half-time to become the first player in Dutch football history male or female to reach 100 goals for the national team.
Victoria Pelova and Esmee Brugts added second-half goals as the 2017 European champions took early control of Group D, which also features France and England.
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Miedema Milestone Caps Dutch Dominance
Wales, the lowest-ranked side in the group, held their own for much of the first half, frustrating a technically superior Dutch side. Olivia Clark made a smart early save to deny Miedema, and early energy from Ceri Holland and Hannah Cain gave Rhian Wilkinson’s team some promise going forward.
But class told just before the break.
Jill Roord nearly opened the scoring when her thunderous volley smashed the post in the 38th minute. Minutes later, Miedema produced a moment of brilliance, bending a left-footed strike from the edge of the area into the far corner to write herself into the history books.
She now tops the Netherlands’ all-time scoring chart:
- Vivianne Miedema – 100 goals
- Lieke Martens – 61
- Manon Melis – 59
- Memphis Depay & Robin van Persie – 50
Tactical Missteps Prove Costly for Wales
Wilkinson admitted that tactical tweaks at half-time contributed to Wales’ undoing. Within five minutes of the restart, Danielle van de Donk raced onto a long ball over the top and calmly set up Pelova, who slotted past Clark with ease.
As Wales tried to regroup, Brugts sealed the result, capitalizing on more space in midfield and defensive fatigue to make it 3-0 and end any lingering hopes of a comeback.
Despite the margin, Wilkinson remained philosophical.
“This is the world stage. It’s intimidating, but this is where we want to be,” she said.
“We made some changes at half-time and that cost us the second goal. But we saw moments flashes of what we’re capable of.”
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Wales Learn Tough Lessons on Big Stage
Speaking from the Allmend Stadion in Lucerne, Sky Sports News reporter Geraint Hughes highlighted the bigger picture for Wales:
“It wasn’t unexpected. Miedema’s goal was world-class, and conceding before half-time always hurts. The Dutch were brilliant, but Wales didn’t fold. They fought. This is a learning journey and a steep one.”
What’s Next?
Wales will look to bounce back in their second group match against tournament contenders France on Wednesday, knowing improvement is essential if they are to keep their Euro 2025 hopes alive.
The Netherlands, meanwhile, face England in a highly anticipated clash that could determine the group winner.
