Castelen leads Dutch charge

Roman Castelen scored a hat-trick as the Netherlands ensured they finished atop UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifying Group 1 with an impressive 4-0 victory against F.Y.R. Macedonia.

Huntelaar header
The Feyenoord striker broke the deadlock on 23 minutes after good work from captain Stijn Schaars, and although the visitors kept the Dutch side at bay until midway through the second half, the result never really looked in doubt. Klaas Jan Huntelaar eventually doubled the lead on 65 minutes before Castelen gave the scoreline a one-sided appearance with two goals in the final 17 minutes.

Relaxed performance
Already assured of a play-off place, Foppe De Haan's side looked at ease from the whistle, and broke the deadlock midway through the first half when Schaars intercepted the ball and fed Castelen, who surprised Darko Tofiloski with an early shot. The Netherlands were cantering, but still led by a solitary goal until Huntelaar made it 2-0, heading in a left-wing cross from Quincy Owusu-Abeyie.

Late double
Castelen then returned to the fore, effectively sealing victory on 73 minutes before completing a fine hat-trick in added time. The result means the Netherlands qualify as group winners, finishing two points clear of the Czech Republic.