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WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - July 28th, 2019

Flames engulfed trees beside a motorway in France on Friday (July 26), as a heatwave continues to grip Europe. Soaring temperatures broke records in France, Britain and the Netherlands on Thursday (July 25), in what scientists said were becoming more frequent events as the planet heats up. Earlier on Friday farmers were ordered to stop harvesting in France's second-largest grain-producing department Oise after hundreds of hectares of fields caught fire during an intense heatwave. Local authorities put an indefinite suspension on threshing in the whole of the Oise department on Thursday, citing the risk of fires and risk to the local population. More than 500 hectares of land caught fire on Tuesday alone in the department. Several firemen were hurt while trying to put out the fires.

Flames visible from motorway in France, as heatwave grips Europe

The hot air that smashed European weather records this week, moves towards Greenland and could take the world's second largest ice sheet close to or below the record low seen in 2012, the United Nations said on July 26.

Heatwave threatens Greenland ice sheet

Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands broke the 23-year-old women’s mile world record on Friday when she clocked four minutes 12.33 seconds in a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/dutee-chand-wins-gold-in-world-university-games-earns-pm-modi-president-kovinds-praise-234634&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiEqL69qLHjAhXP62EKHa9LC2oQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1vQntrDaAyTZJYIFqlMnk_">race </a>dedicated to former American runner Gabe Grunewald, who died from cancer last month at the age of 32.

Hassan, 26, initially looked to be off the record pace in the rarely-run event but finished strongly to edge the 4:12.56 set by Russia’s Svetlana Masterkova in Zurich in 1996.

It was a fitting performance in an event named the "Brave like Gabe" Mile. There was a tribute to Grunewald on the big screens at the stadium before the race and once it was underway, Hassan, who moved to the Netherlands after leaving Ethiopia as a refugee when she was 15, was always in control.

“I knew I could run fast, but the first 800 was a bit slow, so after that, I wasn't thinking it would be a world record,” said Hassan, who took more than two seconds off her previous best for the distance.

"When I crossed the line I was so surprised," she added after clocking a 62 seconds final lap.

"After you run the last 400 like that, and set a world record, it gives you so much confidence over 5,000m.''

"I want to double over 1500 and 5,000 in Doha (at the world championships in September) and the way I finished the last 400, it's amazing,” Hassan said.

Hassan's was not the only classy middle-distance performance of the night as Nijel Amos ran the fastest 800 metres seen since the 2012 Olympics as he posted one minute 41.89 seconds.

Nobody has gone under 1:42 since the memorable final in London seven years ago when Kenya's David Rudisha set the current world record of 1:40.91 and Botswana's Amos ran his own best of 1:41.73 to take the silver medal.

Amos followed the pacemaker through halfway in 49 seconds on Friday and held on strongly on a perfect night for the distance, with warm, wind-free conditions.

Cheruiyot Rotich of Kenya chased him all the way and posted his own personal best time of 1:42.54 as the first nine finishers clocked their fastest times of the season.

"I did an impossible session on Tuesday and after that, I knew I could run 1:41," said Amos. "The world record is not in my mind but if I'm patient, it will come."

TECHNICAL RACE

Those fireworks meant that, for once, the men’s 100 metres was not the biggest <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/dutee-chand-indias-first-openly-gay-athelete-turns-cover-girl-for-a-fashion-magazine-234275&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiEqL69qLHjAhXP62EKHa9LC2oQFjAAegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2lEKwPRXgCZ_5YhOlFnGXz">race </a>of the night – though it was still an excellent one as Justin Gatlin won it in 9.91 seconds, edging fellow Americans Noah Lyles (9.92) and Mike Rodgers (10.01).

"It's all about putting together a good technical race, to use my experience," said Gatlin, defying all the traditional rules of sprinting at the age of 37.

"It feels great to beat these guys. This season is surreal, I can't believe I'm still winning here after more than 20 years. Noah is a great runner, so every time I race him, I'm excited,"&nbsp;Gatlin said.

American Kendra Harrison won an exciting 100m hurdle in a season’s best 12.43 while Diamond Trophy holder Shaunae Miller-Uibo was a clear winner in a strong field in the 200m in 22.09.

In a chaotic men’s 400 metres there was a false start and Jonathan Jones of Barbados did not hear the recall.

Jones ran the entire race on his own, while Colombian Anthony Zambrano ran 200 metres, with neither man able to take part in the restarted race a few minutes later.

American Kahmari Montgomery, who made the false start, was allowed to start the race, which was won by Steven Gardiner, who also ran on for a while during the initial mess, in 44.51.

"I covered almost 100m but I stopped when I saw everybody stop," he said Gardiner of the Bahamas. "I came back and re-focused and went again."

Montgomery finished the race but was later disqualified.

Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands broke the 23-year-old women’s mile world record on Friday when she clocked four minutes 12.33 seconds in a race dedicated to former American runner Gabe Grunewald, who died from cancer last month at the age of 32.

Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands broke the 23-year-old women’s mile world record on Friday when she clocked four minutes 12.33 seconds in a race dedicated to former American runner Gabe Grunewald, who died from cancer last month at the age of 32. Hassan, 26, initially looked to be off the record pace in the rarely-run event but finished strongly to edge the 4:12.56 set by Russia’s Svetlana Masterkova in Zurich in 1996. It was a fitting performance in an event named the "Brave like Gabe" Mile. There was a tribute to Grunewald on the big screens at the stadium before the race and once it was underway, Hassan, who moved to the Netherlands after leaving Ethiopia as a refugee when she was 15, was always in control. “I knew I could run fast, but the first 800 was a bit slow, so after that, I wasn't thinking it would be a world record,” said Hassan, who took more than two seconds off her previous best for the distance. "When I crossed the line I was so surprised," she added after clocking a 62 seconds final lap. "After you run the last 400 like that, and set a world record, it gives you so much confidence over 5,000m.'' "I want to double over 1500 and 5,000 in Doha (at the world championships in September) and the way I finished the last 400, it's amazing,” Hassan said. Hassan's was not the only classy middle-distance performance of the night as Nijel Amos ran the fastest 800 metres seen since the 2012 Olympics as he posted one minute 41.89 seconds. Nobody has gone under 1:42 since the memorable final in London seven years ago when Kenya's David Rudisha set the current world record of 1:40.91 and Botswana's Amos ran his own best of 1:41.73 to take the silver medal. Amos followed the pacemaker through halfway in 49 seconds on Friday and held on strongly on a perfect night for the distance, with warm, wind-free conditions. Cheruiyot Rotich of Kenya chased him all the way and posted his own personal best time of 1:42.54 as the first nine finishers clocked their fastest times of the season. "I did an impossible session on Tuesday and after that, I knew I could run 1:41," said Amos. "The world record is not in my mind but if I'm patient, it will come." TECHNICAL RACE Those fireworks meant that, for once, the men’s 100 metres was not the biggest race of the night – though it was still an excellent one as Justin Gatlin won it in 9.91 seconds, edging fellow Americans Noah Lyles (9.92) and Mike Rodgers (10.01). "It's all about putting together a good technical race, to use my experience," said Gatlin, defying all the traditional rules of sprinting at the age of 37. "It feels great to beat these guys. This season is surreal, I can't believe I'm still winning here after more than 20 years. Noah is a great runner, so every time I race him, I'm excited," Gatlin said. American Kendra Harrison won an exciting 100m hurdle in a season’s best 12.43 while Diamond Trophy holder Shaunae Miller-Uibo was a clear winner in a strong field in the 200m in 22.09. In a chaotic men’s 400 metres there was a false start and Jonathan Jones of Barbados did not hear the recall. Jones ran the entire race on his own, while Colombian Anthony Zambrano ran 200 metres, with neither man able to take part in the restarted race a few minutes later. American Kahmari Montgomery, who made the false start, was allowed to start the race, which was won by Steven Gardiner, who also ran on for a while during the initial mess, in 44.51. "I covered almost 100m but I stopped when I saw everybody stop," he said Gardiner of the Bahamas. "I came back and re-focused and went again." Montgomery finished the race but was later disqualified.

Netherlands' Sifan Hassan breaks women's mile world record on emotional night

More than 14 million tickets have been requested for the 2020 European Championship during the first three weeks of the sales window, breaking the tournament's record for registrations, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-confirms-new-laws-will-not-be-implemented-at-nations-league-224205&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiWxcuw-afjAhXVmeYKHVSsAKEQFjABegQICxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3ZMjbLwNsE_mvjZDONjryK">UEFA</a> said on Tuesday.

In the month-long first phase of sales starting on June 12, 1.5 million tickets were made available to the general public as part of UEFA's "fan-first" ticketing policy for the tournament.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-qualifier-new-look-germany-edge-dutch-in-thriller-205490&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNx_zP-afjAhW57XMBHZGnCcEQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw30oRc8lrvbXkiaKaOTLtZJ">Euro 2020</a>, which runs from June 12-July 12, is being played in 12 cities across Europe for the first time to mark the 60th anniversary of the competition.

European soccer's governing body said the demand for tickets among locals is highest in St Petersburg, London and Budapest, with more than 50% of tickets requested in these cities having been by supporters from the host nations.

The final at Wembley has received 1.3 million ticket requests, while the two semi-finals at the same venue have attracted a combined 1.5 million applications.

The first-phase tickets are being sold on euro2020.com/tickets until 1400 CEST (1200 GMT) on Friday.

The next phase of ticket sales will begin in December after the final <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-qualifier-new-look-germany-edge-dutch-in-thriller-205490&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNx_zP-afjAhW57XMBHZGnCcEQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw30oRc8lrvbXkiaKaOTLtZJ">tournament </a>draw takes place on November&nbsp;30, with 1 million tickets on offer for fans of participating nations.

More than 14 million tickets have been requested for the 2020 European Championship during the first three weeks of the sales window, breaking the tournament's record for registrations, UEFA said on Tuesday.

More than 14 million tickets have been requested for the 2020 European Championship during the first three weeks of the sales window, breaking the tournament's record for registrations, UEFA said on Tuesday. In the month-long first phase of sales starting on June 12, 1.5 million tickets were made available to the general public as part of UEFA's "fan-first" ticketing policy for the tournament. Euro 2020, which runs from June 12-July 12, is being played in 12 cities across Europe for the first time to mark the 60th anniversary of the competition. European soccer's governing body said the demand for tickets among locals is highest in St Petersburg, London and Budapest, with more than 50% of tickets requested in these cities having been by supporters from the host nations. The final at Wembley has received 1.3 million ticket requests, while the two semi-finals at the same venue have attracted a combined 1.5 million applications. The first-phase tickets are being sold on euro2020.com/tickets until 1400 CEST (1200 GMT) on Friday. The next phase of ticket sales will begin in December after the final tournament draw takes place on November 30, with 1 million tickets on offer for fans of participating nations.

UEFA: Record 14 million tickets requested for Euro 2020

The United States retained the women's World Cup on Sunday as a Megan Rapinoe penalty and a superb Rose Lavelle strike gave the holders a 2-0 victory over a battling Netherlands side in Lyon.

Having been kept at bay by the brilliant Dutch goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal throughout the first half, the USA finally went ahead just after the hour as Rapinoe stroked home from 12 yards to end the tournament as joint top scorer on six goals.

There was an air of inevitability about the pink-haired 34-year-old, the star of this World Cup on and off the field, putting the USA ahead.

It also seemed inevitable that the breakthrough goal here should come from a VAR-awarded penalty, with French referee Stephanie Frappart initially giving a corner before pointing to the spot following a review.

The whippet-like Lavelle, another stand-out performer over the last month, got the second goal in the 69th minute, killing off Dutch hopes of a comeback.

The victory underlines the USA's status as the dominant force in international women's football as they claim the World Cup for the fourth time in eight editions.

They were already the first team to appear in three consecutive finals, and coach Jill Ellis becomes the first coach to win back-to-back World Cups in the men's or women's game since Italy's Vittorio Pozzo in the 1930s.

The USA had been the only non-European team to make it to the quarter-finals here, but they had already ended the hopes of the hosts and England before denying the Dutch a dream double success, two years after they won Euro 2017 on home soil.

Whether the Americans can continue this domination on to the next World Cup remains to be seen, not least because Rapinoe is already in the twilight years of her career.

She was brought back into the starting line-up here by Ellis having sat out the victory over England in the last four due to a hamstring problem.

Christen Press made way but came on for the closing stages, as Rapinoe went off to a loud ovation from the massed ranks of USA fans.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 
 
Congrats, <a href="https://twitter.com/USWNT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USWNT</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LaGrandeFinale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LaGrandeFinale</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USANED?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USANED</a>🇺🇸🇳🇱 <a href="https://t.co/YgrovxrBAa">pic.twitter.com/YgrovxrBAa</a>
— FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWWC/status/1147911900774182912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Goalkeeping heroics in vain

At a tournament which has showcased the improving standards of goalkeeping in the women's game, the excellent Van Veenendaal prevented the USA from winning by a greater margin.

The 29-year-old, who has spent the last four years at Arsenal, had already excelled in her team's win over Sweden in the semi-finals.

Here, she allowed her team to withstand an onslaught from the holders towards half-time, saving well from Julie Ertz and bettering that by producing two superb stops in quick succession in the 38th minute.

Both American chances came from crosses from the left by Rapinoe. First Van Veenendaal stopped a Samantha Mewis header, and then she turned the ball onto the post when Alex Morgan diverted Rapinoe's low centre towards goal.

Morgan was thwarted again moments later as she tried her luck from 20 yards, and the European champions held out until the interval.

The USA had scored no later than the 12th minute in all of their prior matches at this World Cup, but the Dutch, crucially, offered little going forward at the other end.

Still, it was 61 minutes before the holders went ahead.

The referee gave a corner when Stefanie van der Gragt challenged Morgan in the area, but changed her mind upon seeing the images. Rapinoe stroked in the first penalty scored in a women's World Cup final to claim a share of the golden boot with Morgan and England's Ellen White.

The Netherlands tried to regain their composure, but there was nothing they could do to stop Lavelle's piercing run towards the box midway through the second half.

She dropped her shoulder to set up the shooting opportunity, and fired in low from 18 yards. Van Veenendaal then saved from Morgan and Dunn to keep the score down, but the title was the USA's again.

The United States retained the women's World Cup on Sunday as a Megan Rapinoe penalty and a superb Rose Lavelle strike gave the holders a 2-0 victory over a battling Netherlands side in Lyon.

The United States retained the women's World Cup on Sunday as a Megan Rapinoe penalty and a superb Rose Lavelle strike gave the holders a 2-0 victory over a battling Netherlands side in Lyon. Having been kept at bay by the brilliant Dutch goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal throughout the first half, the USA finally went ahead just after the hour as Rapinoe stroked home from 12 yards to end the tournament as joint top scorer on six goals. There was an air of inevitability about the pink-haired 34-year-old, the star of this World Cup on and off the field, putting the USA ahead. It also seemed inevitable that the breakthrough goal here should come from a VAR-awarded penalty, with French referee Stephanie Frappart initially giving a corner before pointing to the spot following a review. The whippet-like Lavelle, another stand-out performer over the last month, got the second goal in the 69th minute, killing off Dutch hopes of a comeback. The victory underlines the USA's status as the dominant force in international women's football as they claim the World Cup for the fourth time in eight editions. They were already the first team to appear in three consecutive finals, and coach Jill Ellis becomes the first coach to win back-to-back World Cups in the men's or women's game since Italy's Vittorio Pozzo in the 1930s. The USA had been the only non-European team to make it to the quarter-finals here, but they had already ended the hopes of the hosts and England before denying the Dutch a dream double success, two years after they won Euro 2017 on home soil. Whether the Americans can continue this domination on to the next World Cup remains to be seen, not least because Rapinoe is already in the twilight years of her career. She was brought back into the starting line-up here by Ellis having sat out the victory over England in the last four due to a hamstring problem. Christen Press made way but came on for the closing stages, as Rapinoe went off to a loud ovation from the massed ranks of USA fans. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Congrats, @USWNT! #LaGrandeFinale | #USANED🇺🇸🇳🇱 pic.twitter.com/YgrovxrBAa — FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) July 7, 2019 × Goalkeeping heroics in vain At a tournament which has showcased the improving standards of goalkeeping in the women's game, the excellent Van Veenendaal prevented the USA from winning by a greater margin. The 29-year-old, who has spent the last four years at Arsenal, had already excelled in her team's win over Sweden in the semi-finals. Here, she allowed her team to withstand an onslaught from the holders towards half-time, saving well from Julie Ertz and bettering that by producing two superb stops in quick succession in the 38th minute. Both American chances came from crosses from the left by Rapinoe. First Van Veenendaal stopped a Samantha Mewis header, and then she turned the ball onto the post when Alex Morgan diverted Rapinoe's low centre towards goal. Morgan was thwarted again moments later as she tried her luck from 20 yards, and the European champions held out until the interval. The USA had scored no later than the 12th minute in all of their prior matches at this World Cup, but the Dutch, crucially, offered little going forward at the other end. Still, it was 61 minutes before the holders went ahead. The referee gave a corner when Stefanie van der Gragt challenged Morgan in the area, but changed her mind upon seeing the images. Rapinoe stroked in the first penalty scored in a women's World Cup final to claim a share of the golden boot with Morgan and England's Ellen White. The Netherlands tried to regain their composure, but there was nothing they could do to stop Lavelle's piercing run towards the box midway through the second half. She dropped her shoulder to set up the shooting opportunity, and fired in low from 18 yards. Van Veenendaal then saved from Morgan and Dunn to keep the score down, but the title was the USA's again.

USA win women's World Cup after beating Netherlands 2-0 in final

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cargo-agent-seizes-jet-airways-plane-in-amsterdam-for-dues-209266">Amsterdam</a>'s first female mayor launched plans on Wednesday to overhaul the city's red light district and its window displays, in a bid to protect sex workers from gawping tourists.

In what would be the most radical revamp of the sex trade there since the Dutch legalised prostitution nearly two decades ago, Femke Halsema suggested stopping the practice of sex workers standing in window-fronted rooms, among other options.

Changes were needed because of social shifts, she told Reuters, including the rise of human trafficking and an increase in the number of tourists visiting the district and using their phones to take and post pictures of the women.

"We're forced by circumstances because Amsterdam changes," Halsema said in an interview before the launch.

"I think a lot of the women who work there feel humiliated, laughed at and that's one of the reasons we are thinking about changing," she added.

The plans included four main scenarios: ending street window displays, closing down city centre brothels and moving them elsewhere, reducing the number of city centre brothels and stepping up the licensing of window workers.

The scenarios, drawn up in a report titled "The Future of Window Prostitution in Amsterdam", also included a broader proposal for an "erotic city zone" that would have a clear entrance gate, similar to a system used in Hamburg, she added.

Those options will be presented to residents and businesses at town hall meetings this month before one chosen and put to a vote in the city council later this year, Halsema said.

Past efforts to control the red light district have faced opposition from sex workers and businesses involved in the lucrative trade.

The mayor said there were no plans to outlaw prostitution outright.

"We legalised prostitution because we thought and still think that legal prostitution gives a woman a chance to be autonomous, independent. Criminalising prostitution has been done in the United States, I think, makes women extra vulnerable."

The changes had three main aims, she said, to protect women from degrading work conditions, to cut crime and to revive the 500-year-old neighbourhood which, along with Amsterdam's canals, is part of a UNESCO world heritage site.

One sex worker and member of PROUD, a union defending the prostitutes' interests, told Reuters the women there were facing increasingly disrespectful behaviour.

"The tourists don't know how to behave themselves in this area," said the women who declined to give her name.

Amsterdam's first female mayor launched plans on Wednesday to overhaul the city's red light district and its window displays, in a bid to protect sex workers from gawping tourists.

Amsterdam's first female mayor launched plans on Wednesday to overhaul the city's red light district and its window displays, in a bid to protect sex workers from gawping tourists. In what would be the most radical revamp of the sex trade there since the Dutch legalised prostitution nearly two decades ago, Femke Halsema suggested stopping the practice of sex workers standing in window-fronted rooms, among other options. Changes were needed because of social shifts, she told Reuters, including the rise of human trafficking and an increase in the number of tourists visiting the district and using their phones to take and post pictures of the women. "We're forced by circumstances because Amsterdam changes," Halsema said in an interview before the launch. "I think a lot of the women who work there feel humiliated, laughed at and that's one of the reasons we are thinking about changing," she added. The plans included four main scenarios: ending street window displays, closing down city centre brothels and moving them elsewhere, reducing the number of city centre brothels and stepping up the licensing of window workers. The scenarios, drawn up in a report titled "The Future of Window Prostitution in Amsterdam", also included a broader proposal for an "erotic city zone" that would have a clear entrance gate, similar to a system used in Hamburg, she added. Those options will be presented to residents and businesses at town hall meetings this month before one chosen and put to a vote in the city council later this year, Halsema said. Past efforts to control the red light district have faced opposition from sex workers and businesses involved in the lucrative trade. The mayor said there were no plans to outlaw prostitution outright. "We legalised prostitution because we thought and still think that legal prostitution gives a woman a chance to be autonomous, independent. Criminalising prostitution has been done in the United States, I think, makes women extra vulnerable." The changes had three main aims, she said, to protect women from degrading work conditions, to cut crime and to revive the 500-year-old neighbourhood which, along with Amsterdam's canals, is part of a UNESCO world heritage site. One sex worker and member of PROUD, a union defending the prostitutes' interests, told Reuters the women there were facing increasingly disrespectful behaviour. "The tourists don't know how to behave themselves in this area," said the women who declined to give her name.

Amsterdam's first woman mayor plans red light district overhaul

International investigators are set on Wednesday (June 19) to launch criminal proceedings against suspects in the shooting down of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine nearly five years ago.

Netherlands set to prosecute suspects in MH17 airliner downing

Portugal added the inaugural <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nations-league-netherlands-enters-final-as-england-self-destruct-225107">Nations League</a> title to their Euro 2016 triumph as Goncalo Guedes's strike on the hour won an underwhelming final 1-0 against the Netherlands in Porto on Sunday.

The Dutch defensive pairing of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ronaldos-hat-trick-against-switzerland-sends-portugal-to-nations-league-final-224802">Virgil van Dijk and Matthijs</a> de Ligt largely kept Cristiano Ronaldo quiet, but Valencia winger Guedes proved the match winner as his shot had too much power for Jasper Cillessen in the Netherlands goal.

"Thank god things have gone well for the national team in recent years. Portugal has won important things like Euro 2016 and now the League of Nations," said Ronaldo.

"It may seem like an easy job but it's hard, it takes a lot of dedication and willingness. I think the players deserve to be congratulated."

Portugal had the advantage of an extra day's rest and not being forced to extra time against Switzerland in their semi-final as the Dutch were in seeing off England on Thursday.

And the hosts looked the fresher throughout with Ronald Koeman's men jaded at the end of a long season.

"If we were tired I don't know, but we were not good enough," admitted Koeman.

"They defended well and the were very compact in their game, but you have to be better with the ball and we were not."

The match had been billed as a showdown between Ronaldo and Van Dijk but with the Dutch captain again rock solid at the back, Portugal's main threat came from midfield with Bernardo Silva rightfully winning player of the tournament.

"I'm very happy, very proud. It's my first title with my country," said Silva, who also won an English domestic treble with Manchester City this season.

"Thank you to the Portuguese people, what a night for us, what a night for the country!"

Silva provided the one true moment of quality to decide the game.

He broke through the Dutch defence and then picked out Guedes, who bravely ignored playing in Ronaldo to drill a low shot past Cillessen himself.

"If you want to win you have to play well, and if Portugal won we had to play well, whether it was handsome or not," said Portugal coach Fernando Santos.

The Netherlands have made huge strides in just over a year since Koeman took charge after missing out on even qualifying for the last two tournaments.

After overcoming world champions France and Germany in the group stages, Koeman's men also outclassed England in the semi-finals.

However, unlike in midweek when Frenkie de Jong dominated the midfield against the English, Holland's latest Barcelona-bound star was unable to seize control of the game and their lack of a top-class striker left the Dutch toothless up front.

"We've made a lot of progress. We have to be very proud of ourselves; now disappointment is in our heads but we have to keep the heads up," said Van Dijk.

"It's been a good season but hopefully next season is going to be even better. That's the only thing I'm striving for." 
&nbsp;

Portugal added the inaugural Nations League title to their Euro 2016 triumph as Goncalo Guedes's strike on the hour won an underwhelming final 1-0 against the Netherlands in Porto on Sunday.

Portugal added the inaugural Nations League title to their Euro 2016 triumph as Goncalo Guedes's strike on the hour won an underwhelming final 1-0 against the Netherlands in Porto on Sunday. The Dutch defensive pairing of Virgil van Dijk and Matthijs de Ligt largely kept Cristiano Ronaldo quiet, but Valencia winger Guedes proved the match winner as his shot had too much power for Jasper Cillessen in the Netherlands goal. "Thank god things have gone well for the national team in recent years. Portugal has won important things like Euro 2016 and now the League of Nations," said Ronaldo. "It may seem like an easy job but it's hard, it takes a lot of dedication and willingness. I think the players deserve to be congratulated." Portugal had the advantage of an extra day's rest and not being forced to extra time against Switzerland in their semi-final as the Dutch were in seeing off England on Thursday. And the hosts looked the fresher throughout with Ronald Koeman's men jaded at the end of a long season. "If we were tired I don't know, but we were not good enough," admitted Koeman. "They defended well and the were very compact in their game, but you have to be better with the ball and we were not." The match had been billed as a showdown between Ronaldo and Van Dijk but with the Dutch captain again rock solid at the back, Portugal's main threat came from midfield with Bernardo Silva rightfully winning player of the tournament. "I'm very happy, very proud. It's my first title with my country," said Silva, who also won an English domestic treble with Manchester City this season. "Thank you to the Portuguese people, what a night for us, what a night for the country!" Silva provided the one true moment of quality to decide the game. He broke through the Dutch defence and then picked out Guedes, who bravely ignored playing in Ronaldo to drill a low shot past Cillessen himself. "If you want to win you have to play well, and if Portugal won we had to play well, whether it was handsome or not," said Portugal coach Fernando Santos. The Netherlands have made huge strides in just over a year since Koeman took charge after missing out on even qualifying for the last two tournaments. After overcoming world champions France and Germany in the group stages, Koeman's men also outclassed England in the semi-finals. However, unlike in midweek when Frenkie de Jong dominated the midfield against the English, Holland's latest Barcelona-bound star was unable to seize control of the game and their lack of a top-class striker left the Dutch toothless up front. "We've made a lot of progress. We have to be very proud of ourselves; now disappointment is in our heads but we have to keep the heads up," said Van Dijk. "It's been a good season but hopefully next season is going to be even better. That's the only thing I'm striving for."

Portugal edge out Netherlands, clinch Nations League title

After facing a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Portugal in the Nations League semi-finals on Thursday, Switzerland midfielder Granit Xhaka enunciated that they were a better team and the only difference between both the teams was they had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-just-ronaldo-were-going-to-face-great-portugal-says-netherlands-virgil-van-dijk-225197">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>.

"I think we had a very good game. In my opinion, we were the better team but the difference is they have Ronaldo,'' Xhaka said.&nbsp;

''It's unbelievable what a player he is. He's one of the best players in the world," Goal.com quoted Xhaka as saying.

Portugal bigwig Ronaldo stunned the Switzerland side as he scored a hat-trick during the match to help his side secure a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nations-league-netherlands-enters-final-as-england-self-destruct-225107">spot in the final.</a>

"He's special because he knows always where you have to go and to be. I think we had him in our hands but, in the end, he scored three times and we lost the game. I think we can be proud of how we play, against a very good team," he added while praising <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ronaldos-hat-trick-against-switzerland-sends-portugal-to-nations-league-final-224802">Ronaldo</a>.

Xhaka also praised the 34-year-old for his 'unbelievable quality'.

"Those two are clear of the rest. If you play at 34 on this level you deserve a lot of respect. He shows in all the games - international and with Juventus - that he has unbelievable quality," Xhaka said.

Switzerland will now face England for the third position in the Nations League on June 9.

After facing a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Portugal in the Nations League semi-finals on Thursday, Switzerland midfielder Granit Xhaka enunciated that they were a better team and the only difference between both the teams was they had Cristiano Ronaldo.

After facing a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Portugal in the Nations League semi-finals on Thursday, Switzerland midfielder Granit Xhaka enunciated that they were a better team and the only difference between both the teams was they had Cristiano Ronaldo. "I think we had a very good game. In my opinion, we were the better team but the difference is they have Ronaldo,'' Xhaka said. ''It's unbelievable what a player he is. He's one of the best players in the world," Goal.com quoted Xhaka as saying. Portugal bigwig Ronaldo stunned the Switzerland side as he scored a hat-trick during the match to help his side secure a spot in the final. "He's special because he knows always where you have to go and to be. I think we had him in our hands but, in the end, he scored three times and we lost the game. I think we can be proud of how we play, against a very good team," he added while praising Ronaldo. Xhaka also praised the 34-year-old for his 'unbelievable quality'. "Those two are clear of the rest. If you play at 34 on this level you deserve a lot of respect. He shows in all the games - international and with Juventus - that he has unbelievable quality," Xhaka said. Switzerland will now face England for the third position in the Nations League on June 9.

Switzerland were better team, only difference was Portugal had Ronaldo, says Xhaka after facing defeat

Netherlands are all set to vie against Portugal for the Nations League final and former's Virgil van Dijk feels that it is not only Cristiano Ronaldo that they are going to face but 'great Portugal' side.

"We'll see. It's not only Cristiano Ronaldo we're going to face, we face a great Portugal. We will see what's going to happen," Goal.com quoted Van Dijk as saying.

Both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nations-league-netherlands-enters-final-as-england-self-destruct-225107">Netherlands </a>and Portugal registered a 3-1 victory in the semi-finals against England and Switzerland respectively to secure their spot in the final.

Van Dijk is enthused about the final and stated that they are going to give everything.

"I'm looking forward to playing this final with this team, and we`re going to give everything that we can to hopefully hold that trophy in the end and do everyone proud," he said.

Ronaldo scored a hat-trick in the semi-final against Switzerland and Van Dijk is considered as one of the best defenders.&nbsp;

Therefore, the fans will witness a compelling clash between the two.

Van Dijk also eulogised <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ronaldos-hat-trick-against-switzerland-sends-portugal-to-nations-league-final-224802">Portugal </a>teenager Joao Felix and said, "I watch football as well, I've seen the Europa League. Everyone has seen him. He's a big talent for them. He has a bright future in front of him if he stays humble and keeps working hard."

Netherlands will compete with Portugal in the Nations League final on June 10.

Netherlands are all set to vie against Portugal for the Nations League final and former's Virgil van Dijk feels that it is not only Cristiano Ronaldo that they are going to face but 'great Portugal' side.

Netherlands are all set to vie against Portugal for the Nations League final and former's Virgil van Dijk feels that it is not only Cristiano Ronaldo that they are going to face but 'great Portugal' side. "We'll see. It's not only Cristiano Ronaldo we're going to face, we face a great Portugal. We will see what's going to happen," Goal.com quoted Van Dijk as saying. Both Netherlands and Portugal registered a 3-1 victory in the semi-finals against England and Switzerland respectively to secure their spot in the final. Van Dijk is enthused about the final and stated that they are going to give everything. "I'm looking forward to playing this final with this team, and we`re going to give everything that we can to hopefully hold that trophy in the end and do everyone proud," he said. Ronaldo scored a hat-trick in the semi-final against Switzerland and Van Dijk is considered as one of the best defenders. Therefore, the fans will witness a compelling clash between the two. Van Dijk also eulogised Portugal teenager Joao Felix and said, "I watch football as well, I've seen the Europa League. Everyone has seen him. He's a big talent for them. He has a bright future in front of him if he stays humble and keeps working hard." Netherlands will compete with Portugal in the Nations League final on June 10.

Not just Ronaldo, we're going to face great Portugal, says Netherlands' Virgil van Dijk

At barely 14 years of age, some 15,000 children who had been stigmatized as "bad girls" were locked away in convents in the Netherlands, exploited by nuns in the laundries and sewing workshops over the course of a century.

The girls exploited in convents in the Netherlands

Germany defender Nico Schulz scored a late winner as their new-look side snatched a 3-2 win away to the Netherlands in their opening Euro 2020 Group C qualifier on Sunday, an absorbing clash that swung in fortunes from one side to the other.

Germany had seemed well set for victory after a superb first half produced goals for Leroy Sane and Serge Gnabry to give coach Joachim Loew an unexpected fillip as he seeks to restore the flagging fortunes of the 2014 world champions.

But some of the frailties of the last 12 months returned as they let their grip on the game slip, with Memphis Depay laying on a goal for Matthijs de Ligt and then scoring the equaliser himself in another influential display from the in-form forward.

Wing-back Schulz produced the decisive moment of the match though when he netted in the final minute after a fine build-up down the left to re-establish Germany's advantage and claim a crucial victory to get their qualifying campaign underway.

Northern Ireland head the group after goals from Jonny Evans and Josh Magennis gave them a 2-1 win over Belarus on Sunday and a perfect start of six points from two games.

Germany and the Netherlands have three points each, though the latter have now played two matches.

After Netherlands goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen had denied Gnabry at close range, the visitors hit the front as Schulz provided a low cross from the left from which Sane took a touch and scored with a powerful shot.

A rampant Germany doubled their advantage after 34 minutes as Gnabry twisted his way around Netherlands defender Virgil van Dijk before curling a 25-metre shot into the corner of the net, the fifth international goal in six caps for the former Arsenal forward.

The Dutch pulled one back within three minutes of the halftime break though as Depay provided an inviting cross for teenage defender De Ligt to head home his first international goal.

Depay, fresh from two goals and two assists on Thursday against Belarus, levelled the score just past the hour-mark with a low finish into the bottom corner as the visitors failed to clear the loose ball in the box.

It was the second time since November that the Netherlands had come from two goals down to equalise against Germany, and for Depay it was his 11th goal in his last 15 internationals.

But the visitors had the final say as Marco Reus’s pass found an unmarked Schulz in the box and he was able to settle the contest with a low finish that gave Cillessen no chance.

Germany defender Nico Schulz scored a late winner as their new-look side snatched a 3-2 win away to the Netherlands in their opening Euro 2020 Group C qualifier on Sunday, an absorbing clash that swung in fortunes from one side to the other.

Germany defender Nico Schulz scored a late winner as their new-look side snatched a 3-2 win away to the Netherlands in their opening Euro 2020 Group C qualifier on Sunday, an absorbing clash that swung in fortunes from one side to the other. Germany had seemed well set for victory after a superb first half produced goals for Leroy Sane and Serge Gnabry to give coach Joachim Loew an unexpected fillip as he seeks to restore the flagging fortunes of the 2014 world champions. But some of the frailties of the last 12 months returned as they let their grip on the game slip, with Memphis Depay laying on a goal for Matthijs de Ligt and then scoring the equaliser himself in another influential display from the in-form forward. Wing-back Schulz produced the decisive moment of the match though when he netted in the final minute after a fine build-up down the left to re-establish Germany's advantage and claim a crucial victory to get their qualifying campaign underway. Northern Ireland head the group after goals from Jonny Evans and Josh Magennis gave them a 2-1 win over Belarus on Sunday and a perfect start of six points from two games. Germany and the Netherlands have three points each, though the latter have now played two matches. After Netherlands goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen had denied Gnabry at close range, the visitors hit the front as Schulz provided a low cross from the left from which Sane took a touch and scored with a powerful shot. A rampant Germany doubled their advantage after 34 minutes as Gnabry twisted his way around Netherlands defender Virgil van Dijk before curling a 25-metre shot into the corner of the net, the fifth international goal in six caps for the former Arsenal forward. The Dutch pulled one back within three minutes of the halftime break though as Depay provided an inviting cross for teenage defender De Ligt to head home his first international goal. Depay, fresh from two goals and two assists on Thursday against Belarus, levelled the score just past the hour-mark with a low finish into the bottom corner as the visitors failed to clear the loose ball in the box. It was the second time since November that the Netherlands had come from two goals down to equalise against Germany, and for Depay it was his 11th goal in his last 15 internationals. But the visitors had the final say as Marco Reus’s pass found an unmarked Schulz in the box and he was able to settle the contest with a low finish that gave Cillessen no chance.

Euro 2020 qualifier: New-look Germany edge Netherlands in thriller

Germany coach Joachim Loew has said that his side wants to start the qualification for 2020 on a winning note ahead of Euro 2020 qualifier against the Netherlands.&nbsp;

"We want to start our first match with success and also to finish the qualification successfully," said Loew.&nbsp;

Loew is currently in the process of rebuilding his team, with experienced trio Mats Hummels, Jerome Boateng and Thomas Muller all left out of the latest squad.&nbsp;

He said, "We are also in the process of developing new players and that's also an important element that we experienced in the match against Serbia."

Loew said that his side "still needs to find itself" as the struggling team prepare at the Johan Cruyff Arena.&nbsp;

After the training session, Loew said new-look Germany need to "create a new order" as they work through a "discovery process" with several new players in the squad.

The neighbouring countries will do battle again having met twice in last year's group stage of the inaugural UEFA Nations League.&nbsp;

The Netherlands beat Belarus 4-0 in Rotterdam on March 21 in their opening Group C qualifier, a day after Germany proved unconvincing in a 1-1 draw at home to Serbia in an international friendly.&nbsp;

Germany coach Joachim Loew has said that his side wants to start the qualification for 2020 on a winning note ahead of Euro 2020 qualifier against the Netherlands.

Germany coach Joachim Loew has said that his side wants to start the qualification for 2020 on a winning note ahead of Euro 2020 qualifier against the Netherlands. "We want to start our first match with success and also to finish the qualification successfully," said Loew. Loew is currently in the process of rebuilding his team, with experienced trio Mats Hummels, Jerome Boateng and Thomas Muller all left out of the latest squad. He said, "We are also in the process of developing new players and that's also an important element that we experienced in the match against Serbia." Loew said that his side "still needs to find itself" as the struggling team prepare at the Johan Cruyff Arena. After the training session, Loew said new-look Germany need to "create a new order" as they work through a "discovery process" with several new players in the squad. The neighbouring countries will do battle again having met twice in last year's group stage of the inaugural UEFA Nations League. The Netherlands beat Belarus 4-0 in Rotterdam on March 21 in their opening Group C qualifier, a day after Germany proved unconvincing in a 1-1 draw at home to Serbia in an international friendly.

Germany 'still needs to find itself', says Joachim Loew ahead of Netherlands clash

A Turkish-born suspect has confessed to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-prosecutors-investigate-terrorist-motive-in-utrecht-shooting-204328"> terrorism charges over a shooting</a> on a tram in the Dutch city of Utrecht which killed three people, prosecutors said Friday.

Three people were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-release-picture-of-man-linked-to-utrecht-shooting-204132">killed and seven others wounded</a> after the shooting rampage on a tram in the central Dutch city.

Gokmen Tanis, 37, "confessed this morning to the examining magistrate the criminal offenses against him. He also stated that he acted alone," the Dutch prosecution service said in a statement.

"The 37-year-old suspect will appear before a judge on Friday, charged with multiple murders with terrorist aims, as well as attempted murder and a terrorist threat," the public prosecution service had said in a statement on Thursday.

Tanis was arrested after an eight-hour manhunt that virtually shut down the Netherlands' fourth-largest city and saw security stepped up at airports and key sites across the country.

Police later arrested a second 40-year-old suspect in the case.

A Turkish-born suspect has confessed to terrorism charges over a shooting on a tram in the Dutch city of Utrecht which killed three people, prosecutors said Friday.

A Turkish-born suspect has confessed to terrorism charges over a shooting on a tram in the Dutch city of Utrecht which killed three people, prosecutors said Friday. Three people were killed and seven others wounded after the shooting rampage on a tram in the central Dutch city. Gokmen Tanis, 37, "confessed this morning to the examining magistrate the criminal offenses against him. He also stated that he acted alone," the Dutch prosecution service said in a statement. "The 37-year-old suspect will appear before a judge on Friday, charged with multiple murders with terrorist aims, as well as attempted murder and a terrorist threat," the public prosecution service had said in a statement on Thursday. Tanis was arrested after an eight-hour manhunt that virtually shut down the Netherlands' fourth-largest city and saw security stepped up at airports and key sites across the country. Police later arrested a second 40-year-old suspect in the case.

Utrecht tram shooter acted alone, confessed to terrorism charges: Dutch Prosecutor

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - March 19th, 2019

Second seed Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands beat Croatia's Donna Vekic 7-6(2) 6-4 to win the St Petersburg Ladies Trophy on Sunday and claim her eighth WTA singles title.

Bertens, the world number eight, was slow out of the blocks, and found herself trailing 5-2 in the first set before staging a remarkable turnaround.

"I would like to say to Donna congratulations on a great week and sorry for today," Bertens said after collecting the trophy at a glittering presentation ceremony. "It was an amazing final to play... I will be back next year."

The Dutchwoman won 17 of 18 points to first draw level and then win the first-set tiebreak against Vekic, nearly breaking the Croatian's will with that unexpected surge before breaking her serve early in the second set.

Vekic, 22, refused to surrender without a fight, breaking back and winning three games in a row before Bertens rallied to snuff out any chance of the match being pushed to a third set with a second decisive break of serve.

Bertens served for the match at 5-4, racing into a 40-0 lead but then displayed some jitters as she allowed Vekic to level at deuce before finally claiming her fourth championship point after her backhand caught the net and dropped short.

Both players made 33 unforced errors each, but Bertens won 79 percent of her first serve points and sent down eight aces and 27 winners compared to 16 from Vekic.

"Congrats to Kiki and your team. You were too good for me today," Vekic said. "I'm really looking forward to playing doubles with you in Indian Wells.

"Sorry, (coach) Torben (Beltz) we are going to have to wait a little bit longer for that first title but at least the finals are getting bigger."

Second seed Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands beat Croatia's Donna Vekic 7-6(2) 6-4 to win the St Petersburg Ladies Trophy on Sunday and claim her eighth WTA singles title.

Second seed Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands beat Croatia's Donna Vekic 7-6(2) 6-4 to win the St Petersburg Ladies Trophy on Sunday and claim her eighth WTA singles title. Bertens, the world number eight, was slow out of the blocks, and found herself trailing 5-2 in the first set before staging a remarkable turnaround. "I would like to say to Donna congratulations on a great week and sorry for today," Bertens said after collecting the trophy at a glittering presentation ceremony. "It was an amazing final to play... I will be back next year." The Dutchwoman won 17 of 18 points to first draw level and then win the first-set tiebreak against Vekic, nearly breaking the Croatian's will with that unexpected surge before breaking her serve early in the second set. Vekic, 22, refused to surrender without a fight, breaking back and winning three games in a row before Bertens rallied to snuff out any chance of the match being pushed to a third set with a second decisive break of serve. Bertens served for the match at 5-4, racing into a 40-0 lead but then displayed some jitters as she allowed Vekic to level at deuce before finally claiming her fourth championship point after her backhand caught the net and dropped short. Both players made 33 unforced errors each, but Bertens won 79 percent of her first serve points and sent down eight aces and 27 winners compared to 16 from Vekic. "Congrats to Kiki and your team. You were too good for me today," Vekic said. "I'm really looking forward to playing doubles with you in Indian Wells. "Sorry, (coach) Torben (Beltz) we are going to have to wait a little bit longer for that first title but at least the finals are getting bigger."

Kiki Bertens beats Donna Vekic to win St. Petersburg title

In pictures: Belgium clinch maiden Hockey World Cup in style

Belgium will meet the Netherlands in the summit clash of the &nbsp;Men's Hockey World Cup at&nbsp;Bhubaneswar on Sunday.&nbsp;

Belgium and the Netherlands marched into the final of the tournament after emerging victorious in their respective semi-final clashes today.&nbsp;

While Olympic silver medallist Belgium routed England 6-0 in the first semi-final, the Dutch defeated two times World champion Australia 4-3 in the penalty shootout.

At full time, Australia and Netherlands were tied 2-2.&nbsp;

The Dutch would now be looking to join Pakistan as the only team to win four world titles but would have to get past first-time finalist Belgium in the title clash.

Besides the summit clash, a match to determine the 3rd and 4th place will be played tomorrow between England and Australia, before the final clash.&nbsp;

Belgium will meet the Netherlands in the summit clash of the Men's Hockey World Cup at Bhubaneswar on Sunday. Belgium and the Netherlands marched into the final of the tournament after emerging victorious in their respective semi-final clashes today.

Belgium will meet the Netherlands in the summit clash of the Men's Hockey World Cup at Bhubaneswar on Sunday. Belgium and the Netherlands marched into the final of the tournament after emerging victorious in their respective semi-final clashes today. While Olympic silver medallist Belgium routed England 6-0 in the first semi-final, the Dutch defeated two times World champion Australia 4-3 in the penalty shootout. At full time, Australia and Netherlands were tied 2-2. The Dutch would now be looking to join Pakistan as the only team to win four world titles but would have to get past first-time finalist Belgium in the title clash. Besides the summit clash, a match to determine the 3rd and 4th place will be played tomorrow between England and Australia, before the final clash.

It's Netherlands vs Belgium in the Hockey World Cup final

World no. 4 Netherlands broke Australia's dream of clinching a hat-trick of World Cup titles, beating the two-time defending champions 4-3 in sudden death in a pulsating semi-final of men hockey's showpiece tournament here on Saturday.

The Dutch thus took a sweet revenge of their 1-6 loss to the Kookaburras in the summit clash of the 2014 World Cup at the Hague.

The match went into shoot-out after both Netherlands and Australia were locked 2-2 at the end of regulation 60 minutes.

Glenn Schuurman (9th minute) and Seve van Ass (20th) scored for the Dutch before Tim Howard (45th) converted a penalty corner and Eddie Ockenden (60th) found the equaliser for Australia just 26 seconds from the final hooter.

In the shoot-off, Daniel Beale, Tom Craig and Jake Whetton scored for Australia while Jeroen Hertzberger, Van Ass and Thijs van Dam were on target for the Dutch to take the encounter into sudden death.

But it was not to be Australia's day, as Beale's attempt was saved by Dutch goalkeeper Pirmin Blaak after Hertberger scored to take Netherlands to their second consecutive World Cup final.

The Netherlands will face Olympic silver medallist Belgium in Sunday's summit clash after the Red Lions spanked England 6-0 in the other semi-final earlier in the day.

World no.1 Australia will look for a consolation bronze medal when they take on England in the third-fourth place play-off match on Sunday.

The Netherlands took time to get off the blocks as Australia did all the attacking in the initial few minutes but without much success.

After sitting back initially, the Dutchmen got into the groove slowly and had the first real scoring chance in the fourth minute through a penalty corner but Mink van der Weerden's flick was kept away by Australia goalkeeper Andrew Charter.

The Netherlands kept up the pressure on the Australian defence and minutes later took the lead through Schuurman, who scored from close range after being set up by Jonas de Gues' brilliant run down the right flank.

Three minutes from the end of first quarter, Mirco Pruijser's deflection from Netherlands skipper Billy Bakker's long ball down the middle hit the post.

Three minutes into the second quarter, Australia earned their first penalty corner but wasted it.

Netherlands and Australia traded one more penalty corner each in the next few minutes but both the teams failed to convert the chances.

Van Ass doubled Netherlands' lead after his shot from right corner of the box went into the goal following a deflection from Australian Tim Howard's stick.

Trailing by two goals, the Australians came out with purpose after the change of ends as they attacked in numbers in search of breakthroughs.

The Dutch too matched their rivals stick for stick as the game witnessed an end-to-end battle.

Australia pulled a goal back just at the stroke of third quarter through Howard who scored from a penalty corner after their variation went wrong.

Netherlands goalkeeper Blaak had a wonderful match, inflicting brilliant saves now and then to deny the Australians.

In the 53rd minute, an alert Blaak came up with a wonderful reflex save to keep out Flynn Ogilivie's diving effort and then five minutes later the Dutch keeper made another stunning save to deny Blake Govers from Australia's fourth penalty corner.

But the Australians did not give up hope and fought till their last breath, which resulted in getting the equaliser just 26 seconds from full time through Ockenden and take the match into the shoot-out.&nbsp;

World no. 4 Netherlands broke Australia's dream of clinching a hat-trick of World Cup titles, beating the two-time defending champions 4-3 in sudden death in a pulsating semi-final of men hockey's showpiece tournament here on Saturday.

World no. 4 Netherlands broke Australia's dream of clinching a hat-trick of World Cup titles, beating the two-time defending champions 4-3 in sudden death in a pulsating semi-final of men hockey's showpiece tournament here on Saturday. The Dutch thus took a sweet revenge of their 1-6 loss to the Kookaburras in the summit clash of the 2014 World Cup at the Hague. The match went into shoot-out after both Netherlands and Australia were locked 2-2 at the end of regulation 60 minutes. Glenn Schuurman (9th minute) and Seve van Ass (20th) scored for the Dutch before Tim Howard (45th) converted a penalty corner and Eddie Ockenden (60th) found the equaliser for Australia just 26 seconds from the final hooter. In the shoot-off, Daniel Beale, Tom Craig and Jake Whetton scored for Australia while Jeroen Hertzberger, Van Ass and Thijs van Dam were on target for the Dutch to take the encounter into sudden death. But it was not to be Australia's day, as Beale's attempt was saved by Dutch goalkeeper Pirmin Blaak after Hertberger scored to take Netherlands to their second consecutive World Cup final. The Netherlands will face Olympic silver medallist Belgium in Sunday's summit clash after the Red Lions spanked England 6-0 in the other semi-final earlier in the day. World no.1 Australia will look for a consolation bronze medal when they take on England in the third-fourth place play-off match on Sunday. The Netherlands took time to get off the blocks as Australia did all the attacking in the initial few minutes but without much success. After sitting back initially, the Dutchmen got into the groove slowly and had the first real scoring chance in the fourth minute through a penalty corner but Mink van der Weerden's flick was kept away by Australia goalkeeper Andrew Charter. The Netherlands kept up the pressure on the Australian defence and minutes later took the lead through Schuurman, who scored from close range after being set up by Jonas de Gues' brilliant run down the right flank. Three minutes from the end of first quarter, Mirco Pruijser's deflection from Netherlands skipper Billy Bakker's long ball down the middle hit the post. Three minutes into the second quarter, Australia earned their first penalty corner but wasted it. Netherlands and Australia traded one more penalty corner each in the next few minutes but both the teams failed to convert the chances. Van Ass doubled Netherlands' lead after his shot from right corner of the box went into the goal following a deflection from Australian Tim Howard's stick. Trailing by two goals, the Australians came out with purpose after the change of ends as they attacked in numbers in search of breakthroughs. The Dutch too matched their rivals stick for stick as the game witnessed an end-to-end battle. Australia pulled a goal back just at the stroke of third quarter through Howard who scored from a penalty corner after their variation went wrong. Netherlands goalkeeper Blaak had a wonderful match, inflicting brilliant saves now and then to deny the Australians. In the 53rd minute, an alert Blaak came up with a wonderful reflex save to keep out Flynn Ogilivie's diving effort and then five minutes later the Dutch keeper made another stunning save to deny Blake Govers from Australia's fourth penalty corner. But the Australians did not give up hope and fought till their last breath, which resulted in getting the equaliser just 26 seconds from full time through Ockenden and take the match into the shoot-out.

Netherlands beat Australia in thrilling shootout to enter second straight hockey WC final

India's chief coach Harendra Singh Thursday blamed poor umpiring for his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/hockey-world-cup-2018-india-crash-out-after-losing-to-netherlands-in-quarter-final-183831">team's early ouster</a> from the ongoing men's hockey World Cup.&nbsp;

He said the International Hockey Federation (FIH) needs to seriously address the issue as his side has been on the receiving end of poor on-field decisions twice this year.&nbsp;

Aiming to rewrite history after a hiatus of 43 years, India lost 1-2 to the Netherlands in the fourth and last quarterfinal, crashing out in front of a packed Kalinga Stadium.&nbsp;

Harendra said it's high time the FIH reviews the performance of umpires.&nbsp;

"I would like to tender my apologies. We haven't given what we had to. I am not going to stop today. If they (umpires) don't want to improve, we will continue to face these type of results," he said at the post-match press conference.&nbsp;

"Can anyone define Amit Rohidas's 10-min yellow card? What about this gentleman (pointing at Manpreet Singh), when he was pushed from behind? Why not a yellow card there? We have lost two major tournaments (Asian Games) this year because of umpiring.&nbsp;

"Two times we got a card when we hadn't done anything. But when it happened against us, they (umpires) said nothing. They need to improve. We have lost two major tournaments," he added.&nbsp;

The India coach, however, said he will not lodge any protest and accept the result.&nbsp;

"99.8 percent the referral goes in favour of players. The outcome of a protest has never been good in my career. We accept this gracefully. We want neutral umpiring. I except both teams to be treated equally. One wrong decision can ruin your preparation of 4-6 years," he said.&nbsp;

India captain Manpreet Singh too was utterly disappointed with the outcome and said there is no point in lodging a protest now.&nbsp;

"What is the use? We lost. We are out of the tournament," he said.&nbsp;

"The team had put in all the effort, but it didn't happen. I am happy that all boys gave their 100 per cent and were not short on confidence." 
Harendra said it was an equal contest but missed chances hurt India badly.&nbsp;

"We had a couple of open chances. We missed, so did Holland. That was because both teams were playing high-tempo game. Sometimes your position is not there, or your stick is not there (in the right place). The way the boys fought without the goalkeeper, in front of you I want to salute my players."&nbsp;

"We played well in patches but I will give 7 out of 10 on temperament to my team."&nbsp;

Criticising the on-field umpires, Harendra further said he didn't think the penalty corner from which Netherlands scored their winner, was right.&nbsp;

"The penalty corner which they got, I don't agree with it," he said. 
Netherlands coach Max Caldas, however, disagreed with his Indian counterpart and said it is not wise to blame the umpires after a defeat.&nbsp;

"The team with most chances wins the game. We won the game. That's the bottom line. In the end, the umpires didn't play the game. We never discuss umpires after a game, we talk about our own performance," he said.&nbsp;

"We review games, not umpires. We review our own performance. It happened with us at the Champions Trophy when the call went against us and we had a draw against India. Umpires do their job. It's a very fast-paced game," Caldas added.&nbsp;

The Dutch captain Billy Bakker too agreed with his coach on the umpiring issue.&nbsp;

"I think we are pretty happy with the officials. In the end, India were asking for a penalty corner. It doesn't matter if they had the referral.&nbsp;

Sometimes in sports things don't go like you want. Something you have to deal with it," he said.&nbsp;

"I think the umpires did a good job."

India's chief coach Harendra Singh Thursday blamed poor umpiring for his team's early ouster from the ongoing men's hockey World Cup. He said the International Hockey Federation (FIH) needs to seriously address the issue as his side has been on the receiving end of poor on-field decisions twice this year.

India's chief coach Harendra Singh Thursday blamed poor umpiring for his team's early ouster from the ongoing men's hockey World Cup. He said the International Hockey Federation (FIH) needs to seriously address the issue as his side has been on the receiving end of poor on-field decisions twice this year. Aiming to rewrite history after a hiatus of 43 years, India lost 1-2 to the Netherlands in the fourth and last quarterfinal, crashing out in front of a packed Kalinga Stadium. Harendra said it's high time the FIH reviews the performance of umpires. "I would like to tender my apologies. We haven't given what we had to. I am not going to stop today. If they (umpires) don't want to improve, we will continue to face these type of results," he said at the post-match press conference. "Can anyone define Amit Rohidas's 10-min yellow card? What about this gentleman (pointing at Manpreet Singh), when he was pushed from behind? Why not a yellow card there? We have lost two major tournaments (Asian Games) this year because of umpiring. "Two times we got a card when we hadn't done anything. But when it happened against us, they (umpires) said nothing. They need to improve. We have lost two major tournaments," he added. The India coach, however, said he will not lodge any protest and accept the result. "99.8 percent the referral goes in favour of players. The outcome of a protest has never been good in my career. We accept this gracefully. We want neutral umpiring. I except both teams to be treated equally. One wrong decision can ruin your preparation of 4-6 years," he said. India captain Manpreet Singh too was utterly disappointed with the outcome and said there is no point in lodging a protest now. "What is the use? We lost. We are out of the tournament," he said. "The team had put in all the effort, but it didn't happen. I am happy that all boys gave their 100 per cent and were not short on confidence." Harendra said it was an equal contest but missed chances hurt India badly. "We had a couple of open chances. We missed, so did Holland. That was because both teams were playing high-tempo game. Sometimes your position is not there, or your stick is not there (in the right place). The way the boys fought without the goalkeeper, in front of you I want to salute my players." "We played well in patches but I will give 7 out of 10 on temperament to my team." Criticising the on-field umpires, Harendra further said he didn't think the penalty corner from which Netherlands scored their winner, was right. "The penalty corner which they got, I don't agree with it," he said. Netherlands coach Max Caldas, however, disagreed with his Indian counterpart and said it is not wise to blame the umpires after a defeat. "The team with most chances wins the game. We won the game. That's the bottom line. In the end, the umpires didn't play the game. We never discuss umpires after a game, we talk about our own performance," he said. "We review games, not umpires. We review our own performance. It happened with us at the Champions Trophy when the call went against us and we had a draw against India. Umpires do their job. It's a very fast-paced game," Caldas added. The Dutch captain Billy Bakker too agreed with his coach on the umpiring issue. "I think we are pretty happy with the officials. In the end, India were asking for a penalty corner. It doesn't matter if they had the referral. Sometimes in sports things don't go like you want. Something you have to deal with it," he said. "I think the umpires did a good job."

Hockey World Cup: Coach Harendra Singh blames poor umpiring for India's early ouster

The Netherlands defeated Canada in the fourth Crossover match on Tuesday in the ongoing Hockey World Cup 2018 at Bhubaneswar's Kalinga Stadium.&nbsp; The Dutch mauled Canada 5-0 in the final scoreline.

By the virtue of this win, Netherlands proceed into the quarterfinals wherein they will face hosts India.&nbsp;

The Netherlands dominated the first quarter after netting two brilliant goals. While they were behind in ball possession, they made up for it in terms of pass accuracy. Their goalscorers were Lars Balk and Robbert Kemperman respectively.&nbsp;

The second half of the encounter was about the Netherlands holding onto the lead and further dominate the game.&nbsp;

The penultimate quarter brought more shock for the Canadian side. They were just no match to the Dutch and the latter slammed two more goals to stretch the lead to 4-0.

The deal was sealed long back but ended the game with their fifth goal on Canada's goalpost.&nbsp;

The Dutch, however, will face a litmus test against hosts and hot favourites India in the next clash on on December 13

The Netherlands defeated Canada in the fourth Crossover match on Tuesday in the ongoing Hockey World Cup 2018 at Bhubaneswar's Kalinga Stadium. The Dutch mauled Canada 5-0 in the final scoreline.

The Netherlands defeated Canada in the fourth Crossover match on Tuesday in the ongoing Hockey World Cup 2018 at Bhubaneswar's Kalinga Stadium. The Dutch mauled Canada 5-0 in the final scoreline. By the virtue of this win, Netherlands proceed into the quarterfinals wherein they will face hosts India. The Netherlands dominated the first quarter after netting two brilliant goals. While they were behind in ball possession, they made up for it in terms of pass accuracy. Their goalscorers were Lars Balk and Robbert Kemperman respectively. The second half of the encounter was about the Netherlands holding onto the lead and further dominate the game. The penultimate quarter brought more shock for the Canadian side. They were just no match to the Dutch and the latter slammed two more goals to stretch the lead to 4-0. The deal was sealed long back but ended the game with their fifth goal on Canada's goalpost. The Dutch, however, will face a litmus test against hosts and hot favourites India in the next clash on on December 13

Hockey World Cup: Netherlands beat Canada to face India in quarterfinals

Two-time champions Germany outclassed Netherlands 4-1 in their second Pool D match to inch closer towards booking a direct quarterfinal berth at the ongoing men's hockey World Cup here on Wednesday.

Germany came back from a goal down and scored through Mathias Muller (30th minute), Lukas Windfeder (52nd), Marco Miltkau (54th) and Christopher Ruhr (58th) to register their second consecutive win in the pool.

Netherlands, who took the early lead through Valentin Verga in the 13th minute, failed to capitalise the start.&nbsp;

After this win, Germany are atop Pool D with six points from two wins ahead of the Netherlands, who are on three points.

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"Matches like these, keep the team grounded. We will come back stronger in all scenarios of the tournament which can arise now," says Chief Coach Maximiliano Caldas. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GERvNED?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GERvNED</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HWC2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HWC2018</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DilHockey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DilHockey</a> <a href="https://t.co/gQqwi0y1kj">pic.twitter.com/gQqwi0y1kj</a>
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Germany had earlier defeated Pakistan 1-0 in their opening match, while Netherlands had mauled Malaysia 7-0.

Two-time champions Germany outclassed Netherlands 4-1 in their second Pool D match to inch closer towards booking a direct quarterfinal berth at the ongoing men's hockey World Cup here on Wednesday.

Two-time champions Germany outclassed Netherlands 4-1 in their second Pool D match to inch closer towards booking a direct quarterfinal berth at the ongoing men's hockey World Cup here on Wednesday. Germany came back from a goal down and scored through Mathias Muller (30th minute), Lukas Windfeder (52nd), Marco Miltkau (54th) and Christopher Ruhr (58th) to register their second consecutive win in the pool. Netherlands, who took the early lead through Valentin Verga in the 13th minute, failed to capitalise the start. After this win, Germany are atop Pool D with six points from two wins ahead of the Netherlands, who are on three points. "Matches like these, keep the team grounded. We will come back stronger in all scenarios of the tournament which can arise now," says Chief Coach Maximiliano Caldas. #GERvNED #IndiaKaGame #HWC2018 #DilHockey pic.twitter.com/gQqwi0y1kj — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) December 5, 2018 × Germany had earlier defeated Pakistan 1-0 in their opening match, while Netherlands had mauled Malaysia 7-0.

Hockey World Cup: Germany score three late goals to beat Netherlands 4-1

Dutch winger Arjen Robben said on Sunday that he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season after a decade of success at the German champions.

The 34-year-old joined the Bavarians in 2009 and instantly formed a formidable attacking partnership with Frenchman Franck Ribery, who is also likely to leave at the end of the season.

"I can say that this is my last year (at Bayern) and it is good like that," Robben told reporters after a meeting with fan groups. "I have taken the decision, personally, that this will be my last year.

"I think it is the right moment after 10 years. The club moves on and I may move on. It is the end of a very good and long period."

Robben has scored 98 goals in 198 Bundesliga games for Bayern and, since his arrival in 2009, he has played in three Champions League finals -&nbsp;in 2010, 2012 and 2013 - winning the title at the third attempt with Bayern.

He has also won seven German league titles, including the last six in a row, and four German Cups with the Bavarians.

Robben, who has also won league titles with PSV Eindhoven, Chelsea and Real Madrid and featured in the 2010 World Cup final for the Netherlands, added that he had no plans to retire.

"I may move on. I won't stop completely yet," he said.

Dutch winger Arjen Robben said on Sunday that he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season after a decade of success at the German champions. The 34-year-old joined the Bavarians in 2009 and instantly formed a formidable attacking partnership with Frenchman Franck Ribery, who is also likely to leave at the end of the season.

Dutch winger Arjen Robben said on Sunday that he will leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season after a decade of success at the German champions. The 34-year-old joined the Bavarians in 2009 and instantly formed a formidable attacking partnership with Frenchman Franck Ribery, who is also likely to leave at the end of the season. "I can say that this is my last year (at Bayern) and it is good like that," Robben told reporters after a meeting with fan groups. "I have taken the decision, personally, that this will be my last year. "I think it is the right moment after 10 years. The club moves on and I may move on. It is the end of a very good and long period." Robben has scored 98 goals in 198 Bundesliga games for Bayern and, since his arrival in 2009, he has played in three Champions League finals - in 2010, 2012 and 2013 - winning the title at the third attempt with Bayern. He has also won seven German league titles, including the last six in a row, and four German Cups with the Bavarians. Robben, who has also won league titles with PSV Eindhoven, Chelsea and Real Madrid and featured in the 2010 World Cup final for the Netherlands, added that he had no plans to retire. "I may move on. I won't stop completely yet," he said.

Arjen Robben says he will leave Bayern at season's end

Former champions Germany and the Netherlands will meet each in qualifying for Euro 2020 after being paired together in Sunday's draw in Dublin, but World Cup semi-finalists England will not complain about their group.

The Germans were the most dangerous team outside the first pot of seeds for the competition, relegated due to poor recent results which included losing to the Dutch in the Nations League.

Joachim Loew's side will also face Northern Ireland, who they met at the Euro 2016 finals, as well as Estonia and Belarus in Group C.

The top two teams in each of the 10 groups will qualify for Euro 2020, which for the first time will be staged in 12 different venues across the continent.

The semi-finals and final will be played at Wembley, handing England a major incentive to go on and win the competition, fresh from reaching the last four at this year's World Cup.

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Gareth Southgate's side will be happy with a draw which places them in Group A along with the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Montenegro and Kosovo.

England are in a section with just five teams rather than six because they have qualified for the final four of the Nations League, which will be held next June in Portugal. The draw for that will take place on Monday.

World Cup winners France will meet Iceland and Turkey as well as Albania, Moldova and Andorra in Group H.

But with the top two in each group qualifying, and the safety net of play-offs to determine the last four qualifiers related to final positions in the recent Nations League, the prospect of any leading nation missing out on Euro 2020 is extremely slim.

The task looks tougher for Scotland as they aim to reach a major tournament for the first time since the 1998 World Cup -- they must take on Belgium, Russia, Cyprus, Kazakhstan and San Marino in Group I.

Scotland have, at least, already secured a play-off spot after topping their Nations League section.

The Republic of Ireland, with a new manager in Mick McCarthy, will meet Switzerland and Denmark in Group D as well as Georgia and Gibraltar.

Wales must take on World Cup runners-up Croatia in Group E alongside Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan.

Arguably the toughest group is Group F in which Sweden, Norway and Romania will likely compete for one berth behind Spain.

The qualifiers will begin in March, with the final round of games in November 2019.

Former champions Germany and the Netherlands will meet each in qualifying for Euro 2020 after being paired together in Sunday's draw in Dublin, but World Cup semi-finalists England will not complain about their group.

Former champions Germany and the Netherlands will meet each in qualifying for Euro 2020 after being paired together in Sunday's draw in Dublin, but World Cup semi-finalists England will not complain about their group. The Germans were the most dangerous team outside the first pot of seeds for the competition, relegated due to poor recent results which included losing to the Dutch in the Nations League. Joachim Loew's side will also face Northern Ireland, who they met at the Euro 2016 finals, as well as Estonia and Belarus in Group C. The top two teams in each of the 10 groups will qualify for Euro 2020, which for the first time will be staged in 12 different venues across the continent. The semi-finals and final will be played at Wembley, handing England a major incentive to go on and win the competition, fresh from reaching the last four at this year's World Cup. View this post on Instagram #EURO2020 qualifying ✅ Toughest group? 🤔 A post shared by UEFA EURO 2020 (@euro2020) on Dec 2, 2018 at 4:00am PST × Gareth Southgate's side will be happy with a draw which places them in Group A along with the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Montenegro and Kosovo. England are in a section with just five teams rather than six because they have qualified for the final four of the Nations League, which will be held next June in Portugal. The draw for that will take place on Monday. World Cup winners France will meet Iceland and Turkey as well as Albania, Moldova and Andorra in Group H. But with the top two in each group qualifying, and the safety net of play-offs to determine the last four qualifiers related to final positions in the recent Nations League, the prospect of any leading nation missing out on Euro 2020 is extremely slim. The task looks tougher for Scotland as they aim to reach a major tournament for the first time since the 1998 World Cup -- they must take on Belgium, Russia, Cyprus, Kazakhstan and San Marino in Group I. Scotland have, at least, already secured a play-off spot after topping their Nations League section. The Republic of Ireland, with a new manager in Mick McCarthy, will meet Switzerland and Denmark in Group D as well as Georgia and Gibraltar. Wales must take on World Cup runners-up Croatia in Group E alongside Slovakia, Hungary and Azerbaijan. Arguably the toughest group is Group F in which Sweden, Norway and Romania will likely compete for one berth behind Spain. The qualifiers will begin in March, with the final round of games in November 2019.

Germany, Netherlands to meet in Euro 2020 qualifying as England given clement draw

Jeroen Hertzberger scored a hat-trick to help last edition silver medallist Netherlands spank a hapless Malaysia 7-0 in a lopsided opening Pool D encounter at the ongoing men's hockey World Cup here on Saturday.&nbsp;

Asian Games silver medallist Malaysia, coached by legendary Dutchman Roelant Oltmans, were expected to produce a fight but the world number 4 Netherlands turned out to be a much superior opponent.

Besides Hertzberger (11th, 29th, 60th minutes), Mirco Pruijser (21st), Mink van der Weerden (35th), Robbert Kemperman and Thierry Brinkman (57th) were the other goal scorers for the three-time champions.

Also Read | <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-hockey-world-cup-2018-netherlands-vs-malaysia-180681">As it happened: Netherlands 7-0 Malaysia</a>

The Dutch, who are eyeing a fourth World Cup title, turned out to be too hot for Malaysia to handle as they toyed with the opposition defence and scored goals at will on a miserable night for their Asian rival.

The Netherlands created chances at will and if not for the veteran Malaysian goalkeeper Kumar Subramaniam's heroics, the margin of defeat could have been bigger for the Asian side.

Subramaniam hardly got any help from his defenders and was forced to make numerous saves.

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It was a horrendous display from the Malaysians in all departments of the game. There was hardly any co-ordination between their defenders, midfielders and forwards, which helped the Dutch to snatch the ball whenever they wanted, before going for the kill.

The gap in quality between the two sides can be gauged from the fact that Netherlands had 29 shots at the goal as against Malaysia's just three.&nbsp;

Placed in the 'pool of death' because of the presence of three former champions in Netherlands, Germany and Pakistan, it could be a herculean task for a demolarised

Malaysia to make a comeback in the tournament after Saturday's heavy defeat.

Malaysia will next play Pakistan on December 5, while the Netherlands will be up against Germany.&nbsp;

Jeroen Hertzberger scored a hat-trick to help last edition silver medallist Netherlands spank a hapless Malaysia 7-0 in a lopsided opening Pool D encounter at the ongoing men's hockey World Cup here on Saturday.

Jeroen Hertzberger scored a hat-trick to help last edition silver medallist Netherlands spank a hapless Malaysia 7-0 in a lopsided opening Pool D encounter at the ongoing men's hockey World Cup here on Saturday. Asian Games silver medallist Malaysia, coached by legendary Dutchman Roelant Oltmans, were expected to produce a fight but the world number 4 Netherlands turned out to be a much superior opponent. Besides Hertzberger (11th, 29th, 60th minutes), Mirco Pruijser (21st), Mink van der Weerden (35th), Robbert Kemperman and Thierry Brinkman (57th) were the other goal scorers for the three-time champions. Also Read | As it happened: Netherlands 7-0 Malaysia The Dutch, who are eyeing a fourth World Cup title, turned out to be too hot for Malaysia to handle as they toyed with the opposition defence and scored goals at will on a miserable night for their Asian rival. The Netherlands created chances at will and if not for the veteran Malaysian goalkeeper Kumar Subramaniam's heroics, the margin of defeat could have been bigger for the Asian side. Subramaniam hardly got any help from his defenders and was forced to make numerous saves. 🏑 | POTM | @jeroenhertz | @oranjehockey #HWC2018 #Odisha2018 🇳🇱 #NEDvMAS 🇲🇾 pic.twitter.com/Gp7UtngW1p — Hockey World Cup 2018 - Host Partner (@sports_odisha) December 1, 2018 src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"> × It was a horrendous display from the Malaysians in all departments of the game. There was hardly any co-ordination between their defenders, midfielders and forwards, which helped the Dutch to snatch the ball whenever they wanted, before going for the kill. The gap in quality between the two sides can be gauged from the fact that Netherlands had 29 shots at the goal as against Malaysia's just three. Placed in the 'pool of death' because of the presence of three former champions in Netherlands, Germany and Pakistan, it could be a herculean task for a demolarised Malaysia to make a comeback in the tournament after Saturday's heavy defeat. Malaysia will next play Pakistan on December 5, while the Netherlands will be up against Germany.

Jeroen Hertzberger scores hat-trick as Netherlands vanquish Malaysia 7-0

Anne Frank House Museum reopens

Netherlands scored twice in the last five minutes to recover from two goals down and earn a 2-2 draw against relegated Germany in the Nations League on Monday to secure a spot in next year's finals ahead of world champions France.

Virgil van Dijk struck a superb close-range volley in stoppage time to equalise for the visitors after Quincy Promes had cut the deficit in the 85th minute with the Germans having led through early goals from Timo Werner and Leroy Sane.

Switzerland, England and hosts Portugal had already qualified for the four-team finals in June.

The Dutch, on the road to recovery under new manager Ronald Koeman after failing to qualify for the last two major tournaments, topped League A Group 1 despite finishing level on seven points with France due to a better head-to-head record.

"This is the reward for our hard work," central defender Van Dijk told reporters. "It was good to get the equaliser and qualify. After a moderate first half we wanted to come out stronger after the break. We showed character tonight."

The Germans, who suffered a shock first-round exit at the World Cup in June and lost a German record six times this year, finished in last place with just two points after what has become a familiar lack of focus this year.

However, their quick young frontline, nicknamed 'the moped gang', looked promising and lived up to their tag as 22-year-olds Werner and Sane, plus Serge Gnabry, 23, frightened the Dutch defence with their speed, especially in the first half.

They had already shown their potential in a 3-0 friendly win over Russia on Thursday as coach Joachim Loew made changes after Germany's World Cup flop and Nations League relegation.

"I am a bit disappointed by the result but overall I saw more positives than negatives," Loew told reporters. "We played a very good first half and should have scored a third in the second half to finish the game.

"But this kind of thing seems to be the story of our entire year," he said, in reference to his side's disappointing season.

The Germans took the lead after nine minutes when Werner controlled a pass with his head and then fired a precise low shot into the corner of the net from 20 metres.

Sane finished an almost identical move in the 20th, latching onto a deep Toni Kroos pass and drilling in the second goal of the evening with a deflected shot from the edge of the box.

Gnabry almost got a third with a glancing header in the 40th and Werner outsprinted his marker only to fire wide on the hour as the Dutch struggled to contain their opponents and remained toothless up front until Promes got them back in the game.

They then earned a last-gasp equaliser through Van Dijk to book their spot in the new competition's finals in Portugal.

Netherlands scored twice in the last five minutes to recover from two goals down and earn a 2-2 draw against relegated Germany in the Nations League on Monday to secure a spot in next year's finals ahead of world champions France.

Netherlands scored twice in the last five minutes to recover from two goals down and earn a 2-2 draw against relegated Germany in the Nations League on Monday to secure a spot in next year's finals ahead of world champions France. Virgil van Dijk struck a superb close-range volley in stoppage time to equalise for the visitors after Quincy Promes had cut the deficit in the 85th minute with the Germans having led through early goals from Timo Werner and Leroy Sane. Switzerland, England and hosts Portugal had already qualified for the four-team finals in June. The Dutch, on the road to recovery under new manager Ronald Koeman after failing to qualify for the last two major tournaments, topped League A Group 1 despite finishing level on seven points with France due to a better head-to-head record. "This is the reward for our hard work," central defender Van Dijk told reporters. "It was good to get the equaliser and qualify. After a moderate first half we wanted to come out stronger after the break. We showed character tonight." The Germans, who suffered a shock first-round exit at the World Cup in June and lost a German record six times this year, finished in last place with just two points after what has become a familiar lack of focus this year. However, their quick young frontline, nicknamed 'the moped gang', looked promising and lived up to their tag as 22-year-olds Werner and Sane, plus Serge Gnabry, 23, frightened the Dutch defence with their speed, especially in the first half. They had already shown their potential in a 3-0 friendly win over Russia on Thursday as coach Joachim Loew made changes after Germany's World Cup flop and Nations League relegation. "I am a bit disappointed by the result but overall I saw more positives than negatives," Loew told reporters. "We played a very good first half and should have scored a third in the second half to finish the game. "But this kind of thing seems to be the story of our entire year," he said, in reference to his side's disappointing season. The Germans took the lead after nine minutes when Werner controlled a pass with his head and then fired a precise low shot into the corner of the net from 20 metres. Sane finished an almost identical move in the 20th, latching onto a deep Toni Kroos pass and drilling in the second goal of the evening with a deflected shot from the edge of the box. Gnabry almost got a third with a glancing header in the 40th and Werner outsprinted his marker only to fire wide on the hour as the Dutch struggled to contain their opponents and remained toothless up front until Promes got them back in the game. They then earned a last-gasp equaliser through Van Dijk to book their spot in the new competition's finals in Portugal.

Dutch draw 2-2 with Germany to reach Nations League semi-finals

Men's Hockey World Cup 2018: All teams and their squad list

The Netherlands resumed visa and passport services in Pakistan on Monday following a brief suspension, denying that its embassy had closed over security concerns after the country gave shelter to the lawyer of a Christian woman in a blasphemy case.

Hard-line Islamists in Pakistan have blocked streets and called for the killing of judges after the Supreme Court overturned on October&nbsp;31 the conviction of Asia Bibi, a mother of five, who had been on death row for eight years.

Bibi's lawyer, Saiful Mulook, fled to the Netherlands soon after the verdict, citing death threats. The Dutch government said on Thursday that it had offered him temporary shelter.

On Friday the Dutch government said in a statement that its embassy in Pakistan, which is in a tightly guarded "diplomatic enclave", had temporarily halted issuing visas "due to circumstances beyond our control".

On Monday evening, the embassy updated the statement: "The Netherlands embassy in Pakistan has resumed all consular/visa related services."

Pakistani media reported that the embassy had been forced to close because of threats. But the Dutch Foreign Ministry said reports of the embassy's closure were mistaken.

"The Dutch embassy in Pakistan is open," the ministry said. "I can add that we take the security of the embassy and our employees very seriously. This is also the subject of consultations between the Netherlands and Pakistan," an official at the Dutch foreign office said.

No one answered the telephone at the Dutch embassy after office hours on Monday.

Bibi, 53, was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 over allegations she made derogatory remarks about Islam, which is punishable by death in Pakistan. She always denied having committed blasphemy.

The militant Tehreek-e-Labaik (TLP) party, which has made blasphemy a rallying cry, took to the streets after the Supreme Court ruling and blocked main cities and highways for three days.

The protests ended after the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan struck a deal with the TLP that the state would not block a petition to review Bibi's acquittal in light of sharia Islamic religious law and ensure she wouldn't leave country until that was decided.

Pakistani government officials have said Bibi is in a secure location while the court considers her case.

The Netherlands resumed visa and passport services in Pakistan on Monday following a brief suspension, denying that its embassy had closed over security concerns after the country gave shelter to the lawyer of a Christian woman in a blasphemy case.

The Netherlands resumed visa and passport services in Pakistan on Monday following a brief suspension, denying that its embassy had closed over security concerns after the country gave shelter to the lawyer of a Christian woman in a blasphemy case. Hard-line Islamists in Pakistan have blocked streets and called for the killing of judges after the Supreme Court overturned on October 31 the conviction of Asia Bibi, a mother of five, who had been on death row for eight years. Bibi's lawyer, Saiful Mulook, fled to the Netherlands soon after the verdict, citing death threats. The Dutch government said on Thursday that it had offered him temporary shelter. On Friday the Dutch government said in a statement that its embassy in Pakistan, which is in a tightly guarded "diplomatic enclave", had temporarily halted issuing visas "due to circumstances beyond our control". On Monday evening, the embassy updated the statement: "The Netherlands embassy in Pakistan has resumed all consular/visa related services." Pakistani media reported that the embassy had been forced to close because of threats. But the Dutch Foreign Ministry said reports of the embassy's closure were mistaken. "The Dutch embassy in Pakistan is open," the ministry said. "I can add that we take the security of the embassy and our employees very seriously. This is also the subject of consultations between the Netherlands and Pakistan," an official at the Dutch foreign office said. No one answered the telephone at the Dutch embassy after office hours on Monday. Bibi, 53, was convicted of blasphemy in 2010 over allegations she made derogatory remarks about Islam, which is punishable by death in Pakistan. She always denied having committed blasphemy. The militant Tehreek-e-Labaik (TLP) party, which has made blasphemy a rallying cry, took to the streets after the Supreme Court ruling and blocked main cities and highways for three days. The protests ended after the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan struck a deal with the TLP that the state would not block a petition to review Bibi's acquittal in light of sharia Islamic religious law and ensure she wouldn't leave country until that was decided. Pakistani government officials have said Bibi is in a secure location while the court considers her case.

Netherlands resumes visa service in Pakistan after brief halt

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