Ambon Turns Orange: Dutch Supporters in Indonesia Parade After Netherlands' Euro 2024 Win
Ambon. Thousands of Dutch football fans in Ambon, Maluku, took to the streets in a convoy to celebrate the victory of their team, known as The Oranje, against Romania in the Round of 16 of Euro 2024.
"This convoy is our expression of euphoria because in the past two matches, the Dutch team hadn't managed to secure a win," said fan Frans Lekatompessy in Ambon on Wednesday.
The victory convoy followed immediately after the Netherlands' match against Romania in the Euro 2024 Round of 16, which ended in a 3-0 victory for the Dutch.
Driving motorcycles and cars adorned with orange-themed accessories and waving Dutch flags, the fans circled around Ambon City.
Even a large 3x4 meter Dutch flag was hoisted to mark the joy of the football enthusiasts.
The excitement among Dutch football fans in Ambon was palpable even before the match began. Supporters of The Oranje in the city gathered for viewing parties at every corner.
"Whenever the Netherlands plays, Ambon remains lively," said another Dutch fan, Jackson Manuputty.
He noted that the Dutch national team has a large following in Maluku due to historical ties, dating back to the colonial era when many Moluccans served in the Dutch military or relocated to the Netherlands. This has created strong cultural and historical bonds, including in football.
"The excitement for European football competitions or World Cups in Ambon is particularly felt when the Netherlands plays, especially now that the team includes players with Moluccan heritage like AC Milan's Tijjani Reijjner," Jackson added.
Reijjner's mother, Angelina Lekatompessy, comes from Latuhalat Village in Ambon.
In the match against Romania, The Oranje advanced to the quarter-finals thanks to goals from Cody Gakpo and Donyell Malen.
Gakpo opened the scoring in the first half with a goal in the 20th minute. The Liverpool striker then set up Donyell Malen for the second goal in the 83rd minute.
Malen sealed the victory with another goal late in the game, securing a three-goal lead.
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