A strong 2-0 win in the final four saw Portugal head into the UEFA Euro u17s final at the expense of the Netherlands, who featured Arsenal’s Donyell Malen.

Unlike some previous matches, Malen started in his favoured position up front but nothing fell his way on a difficult afternoon.

Portugal were yet to concede heading into Wednesday’s semi-final and managed to stifle Malen, Che Nunnely, Tahith Chong, and Justin Kluivert to keep another. No wonder Arsenal goalkeeper Joao Virginia, who watched on from the bench again, can’t get in the team.

Goals from Diogo Dalot and José Gomes at the other end sealed the win.

The tournament was a disappointing one for Malen, who played in all five games but failed to score or assist for the Netherlands. The team didn’t really seem to play to his strengths and he struggled to adapt.

Though he hasn’t featured, let’s hope Portugal now finish the job so Arsenal youngster Virginia picks up a medal.

Malen has had a strong first season at Arsenal but this tournament just wasn’t to be for him.