Netherlands first to book play-off place

The Netherlands became the first team to qualify for the UEFA European Under-21 Championship play-offs as group winners with a 3-0 victory against Liechtenstein.

The visitors – along with the Czech Republic – were one of only two sides with 100% qualifying records at the start of the day and Cor Pot's side rarely looked in danger of blotting their copybook. They had to wait until three minutes before half-time to go in front through Erik Falkenburg before Jens Toornstra (55) and Bas Dost (78) struck in the second period. Victory leaves the Netherlands eight points clear of Spain, who have only two fixtures left following their 1-1 draw with Finland.

The Jong Oranje may have started slowly but their patience was eventually rewarded when Daryl Janmaat laid on for Falkenburg, who finished well from ten metres out. The interval failed to disrupt their new-found momentum and they emerged from the break on the front foot, Toornstra, a first-half substitute, doubling their advantage.

The Netherlands sat back, content with a two-goal cushion, but René Pauritsch's side could not find a way into the game. Instead it was Dost who turned Toornstra's cross past Benjamin Büchel 12 minutes from time.