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The Netherlands are through to their first UEFA European Under-21 Championship final. Holland U21, who had again included PSV youngster Ismail Aissati in their starting line-up, succeeded in seeing off favourites France 3-2 in extra time. Klaas Jan HuntelaarNick Hofs and, to a lesser degree, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar made their marks. The Feyenoord midfielder and the Ajax striker had not put in impressive performances during the previous games, but they made crucial contribution during the Euro U21 semi final clash against France. Hofs set the Dutch on their way on six minutes. He rounded his marker before unleashing a left foot strike that went home. And Huntelaar was mobbed by his team mates in the 38th minute, when he delivered a superb chip over the French goalkeeper.Match winner HofsFrance staged a brave second half comeback. Julien Faubert, left completely unmarked, headed home a left wing cross and five minutes before final time substitute Brian Bergougnoux even leveled the score by blasting home a free kick. Holland U21were exhausted when extra was needed to get a result. The same, though, went for the French players, who were reduced to ten when Faubert was dismissed for a second bookable offence. Holland soon benefited from the numerical advantage. Stijn Schaars delivered a fine cross from the left flank and again Hofs coolly converted.Ukraine met Serbia and Montenegro in an exciting semi final tie. After extra time it was still 0-0, so a penalty shoot out was needed to get a winner. Ukraine eventually reached the final after defeating Serbia and Montenegro 5-4 on penalties.So Holland will now meet Ukraine in next Sunday’s final.
