The Netherlands women's national team began its World Cup qualifying play-off away in Hungary on Friday, according to AD.nl. The match marks the start of a decisive stage for the Dutch side in its attempt to reach the World Cup.
AD.nl reports that Viktoria Pelova was handed her first opportunity in the play-off fixture. The outlet described the play-offs as crucial to the team's World Cup hopes.
NOS noted that the Dutch team is facing Hungary in the play-offs, and that midfielder Danielle van de Donk was making her 175th appearance for the national team.
ESPN.nl reported that the Netherlands went into the tie as the favourite against Hungary. The outlet carried the team's stated aim of securing a place at the World Cup before turning attention to booking a ticket.
According to Sportnieuws.nl, the Dutch side lined up with a starting eleven for the play-off match. NU reported that the Netherlands missed chances to score the opening goal in Hungary.
The play-off format means the Dutch must get past Hungary over the tie to keep their World Cup qualification alive. Van de Donk's 175th cap adds a milestone to the fixture.
The next step is the outcome of the tie, which will determine whether the Netherlands advances in its bid to reach the World Cup.
