Why the Netherlands aren't referred to as Holland at Euro 2024

The Netherlands are NOT referred as Holland at Euro 2024. Here's why.

Ronald Koeman's side are grouped with Poland, France and Austria in Group D.

And the Dutch kicked off their campaign with a come-from-behind victory over Poland in their opener.

Liverpool star Cody Gakpo cancelled out Adam Buksa's goal before Wout Weghorst, formerly of Manchester United, grabbed a late winner.

During their game against Poland, they were refereed to as the Netherlands - not Holland.

That's because Holland is not the formal name of the country but is simply a region of the country.

What is the difference between Holland and the Netherlands? Well, many people seem to think that the two names are interchangeable.

However, North Holland and South Holland are actually just two of the 12 provinces of the Netherlands, which is officially called the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The Dutch, though, are well aware that they have been referred to as Holland over the years and at previous tournaments, but they have adopted the nickname specifically to refer to the national football team.

The Netherlands will be looking to win the Euros for the first time since 1988.

Dutch fans at a fan zone in Hamburg. Image: Getty

Speaking after his side's victory over Poland, Gakpo admitted their game against France will be 'totally different'.

"It will be a totally different match against France," he said. "France have more qualities than Poland, they play with a different style, spaces will be different.

"That match of course we want to win as well, we want to beat them and that will be our focus."

Koeman's team were well supported in Hamburg and Gakpo appreciated the turn out.

"There were many fans, more than in Qatar (for the 2022 World Cup)," he added.

"That's great, they're here for us and we're able to face difficult times thanks to the supporters."