Dream start for Netherlands women at Euro 2017

Jackie Groenen delivered a strong performance on midfield - Foto: KNVB Media

The Netherlands have got off to an impressive start of Women's Euro 2017. The hosts won Sunday’s tournament opener against Norway, with Shanice van der Sanden scoring the only goal in front of a capacity crowd, which included King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima.

The boisterous atmosphere at Galgenwaard stadium certainly helped boost the home team morale. Nearly 22,000 fans, a national record, saw the Netherlands take three points in Group A, beating top-rated Norway with the narrowest of margins. Liverpool's Shanice van de Sanden scored the winner, heading in a cross from Lieke Martens after 66 minutes. The Netherlands dominated the game and created many chances, including in the first minute, but Norwegian goalkeeper Ingrid Hjelmseth rose to the occasion with a number of great saves.

This is a dream start for the Netherlands women who will look to repeat their winning performance against Denmark this coming Thursday, when Norway take on Belgium in Breda.