Netherlands national football team

Last updated

Netherlands
Netherlands national football team logo.svg
Nickname(s) Oranje
Holland
Clockwork Orange
The Flying Dutchmen [1]
Association Koninklijke Nederlandse Voetbalbond (KNVB)
Confederation UEFA (Europe)
Head coach Ronald Koeman
Captain Virgil van Dijk
Most caps Wesley Sneijder (134)
Top scorer Robin van Persie (50)
Home stadium Johan Cruyff Arena
De Kuip
Philips Stadion
De Grolsch Veste
FIFA code NED
Kit left arm ned24h.png
Kit left arm.svg
Kit body ned24h.png
Kit body.svg
Kit right arm ned24h.png
Kit right arm.svg
Kit shorts ned24h.png
Kit shorts.svg
Kit socks long.svg
First colours
Kit left arm ned24a.png
Kit left arm.svg
Kit body ned24a.png
Kit body.svg
Kit right arm ned24a.png
Kit right arm.svg
Kit shorts ned24a.png
Kit shorts.svg
Kit socks long.svg
Second colours
FIFA ranking
Current 7 Increase2.svg 1 (28 November 2024) [2]
Highest1 [3] (August 2011)
Lowest36 [4] (August 2017)
First international
Flag of Belgium (civil).svg  Belgium 1–4 Netherlands  Flag of the Netherlands.svg
(Antwerp, Belgium; 30 April 1905)
Biggest win
Flag of the Netherlands.svg  Netherlands 11–0 San Marino  Flag of San Marino.svg
(Eindhoven, Netherlands; 2 September 2011)
Biggest defeat
Flag of England.svg  England Amateurs 12–2 Netherlands  Flag of the Netherlands.svg
(Darlington, England; 21 December 1907) [A]
World Cup
Appearances11 (first in 1934 )
Best resultRunners-up (1974, 1978, 2010)
European Championship
Appearances11 (first in 1976 )
Best resultChampions (1988)
Nations League Finals
Appearances2 (first in 2019 )
Best resultRunners-up (2019)
Website onsoranje.nl (in Dutch)

The Netherlands national football team (Dutch : Nederlands voetbalelftal or simply Het Nederlands elftal) has represented the Netherlands in international men's football matches since 1905. The men's national team is controlled by the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB), the governing body for football in the Netherlands, which is a part of UEFA, under the jurisdiction of FIFA. Most of the Netherlands home matches are played at the Johan Cruyff Arena, De Kuip, Philips Stadion, and De Grolsch Veste.

Contents

The team is colloquially referred to as Het Nederlands Elftal (The Dutch Eleven) or Oranje, after the House of Orange-Nassau and their distinctive orange jerseys. Informally the team, like the country itself, was referred to as Holland . The fan club is known as Het Oranje Legioen (The Orange Legion). [5]

The Netherlands has competed in eleven FIFA World Cups, appearing in the final three times (in 1974, 1978 and 2010). They finished runners-up on all three occasions. They have also appeared in eleven UEFA European Championships, winning the 1988 tournament in West Germany. Additionally, the team won a bronze medal at the Olympic football tournament in 1908, 1912 and 1920. The Netherlands has long-standing football rivalries with neighbours Belgium and Germany.

History

Beginnings: 1905–1969

1905 Netherlands team Nederlands elftal 1905 colorized.jpg
1905 Netherlands team

The Netherlands played their first international match in Antwerp against Belgium on 30 April 1905, with the players selected by a five-member commission from the Dutch Football Association. After 90 minutes, the score was 1–1. As the match was for the Coupe van den Abeele, it went into extra-time, during which Eddy de Neve scored three times, making the score 4–1 for the Netherlands. [6] Some historians attribute one of the goals scored to Willem Hesselink. [7]

In 1908, the Netherlands competed in their first official tournament appearance at the Summer Olympics in London. They received a bronze medal after losing to Great Britain in the semi-finals, before defeating Sweden in the bronze medal match 2–0. [8] At the Olympic Games in 1912 and 1920, the Netherlands finished with the bronze medal as they lost to Denmark and Belgium in the respective tournament. [9] [10]

Netherlands make their way out to face Switzerland at the 1934 FIFA World Cup. Holland - Switzerland - Football World Cup 1934.jpg
Netherlands make their way out to face Switzerland at the 1934 FIFA World Cup.

The Netherlands reached the semi-finals at the 1924 Summer Olympics in Paris after winning against Romania and Ireland. In the semi-finals, they gave up a one-goal lead, scored by Kees Pijl, to lose 2–1 versus Uruguay and were relegated to the third place playoff for the fourth time, [11] losing to Sweden in a replay. [12]

After being eliminated in the first round at the 1928 Summer Olympics on home turf, [13] they skipped the first World Cup in 1930 due to the cost of travel from Europe to South America. [14] The team made their first appearance at a FIFA World Cup in 1934 where they took on Switzerland. Kick Smit was the first goalscorer for the Netherlands in a World Cup. The team was eliminated in the opening round by Switzerland 3–2. [15] A second appearance at the 1938 World Cup resulted in a first-round elimination against Czechoslovakia. [16]

After the Second World War, the Netherlands qualified for only two international tournaments before the 1970s: the 1948 Summer Olympics in Great Britain and the 1952 Summer Olympics in Finland. They suffered early elimination, losing to the hosts in 1948 [17] and Brazil in 1952. [18]

Total football in the 1970s and first golden generation

During the 1970s, the team adopted the Total Football (Dutch : Totaalvoetbal) strategy pioneered by Ajax, and led by playmaker Johan Cruyff and national team head coach Rinus Michels. The Netherlands made significant strides, qualifying for two World Cup finals in the decade. Carlos Alberto, captain of the Brazilian team that won the 1970 FIFA World Cup said: "The only team I've seen that did things differently was Holland at the 1974 World Cup in West Germany. Since then everything looks more or less the same to me ... Their 'carousel' style of play was amazing to watch and marvelous for the game." [19]

The Netherlands team before their 1-2 loss against West Germany in the final of the 1974 World Cup Bundesarchiv Bild 183-N0716-0311, Fussball-WM, BRD - Niederlande 2-1.jpg
The Netherlands team before their 1–2 loss against West Germany in the final of the 1974 World Cup

In 1974, the Netherlands beat both Brazil and Argentina in the second group stage, reaching the final for the first time in their history. However, they lost to West Germany in the final in Munich, after having gone up 1–0 through Johan Neeskens' early penalty kick before a German had even touched the ball. However, a converted penalty by Paul Breitner and the winner from Gerd Müller, led to a victory for the Germans. [20]

The 1976 European Championship saw the Netherlands make their first European Championship. Czechoslovakia kept Cruyff and Van Hanegem within arms-length and defeated the Netherlands in extra time. [21] The Netherlands finished in third place after defeating hosts Yugoslavia in extra time. [22]

In 1978, the Netherlands qualified for the World Cup in Argentina, with the team missing Johan Cruyff due to a kidnapping attempt, [23] and Willem van Hanegem. The squad still had players like Jan Jongbloed, Wim Suurbier and Ruud Krol from the previous World Cup. [24] After finishing runners-up in Group 4 behind Peru, they recorded wins against Austria and Italy to set up a final with Argentina. After a controversial start, with Argentina questioning the plaster cast on René van de Kerkhof's wrist, the match headed to extra time where the Netherlands lost 3–1 after two extra time goals from Mario Kempes and Daniel Bertoni. [25]

1980s: Decline before European champions

Euro 1980 was the last tournament for which the Total Football team qualified. Despite the tournament format being expanded that year they did not advance past the group stage as they finished behind Czechoslovakia by goal difference. [26]

Veterans such as Krol and Rensenbrink retired soon afterwards and the Netherlands hit a low point in their history: they missed the 1982 World Cup in Spain, Euro 1984 in France, and the 1986 World Cup in Mexico; they missed the French tournament by virtue of goals scored when Spain scored twelve in the final game against Malta. While both teams had the same goal difference (+16), Spain qualified having scored two more goals than the Netherlands. [27] During the qualification stage for the 1986 World Cup the Netherlands finished in second place and advanced to the playoffs against neighbours Belgium. After losing the first leg 1–0 in Brussels, they held a 2–0 lead at Rotterdam with a few minutes remaining. Georges Grün's header in the 84th minute resulted in the Netherlands' elimination as Belgium advanced to the World Cup on away goals. [28] [29]

The 1988 trophy on display in Amsterdam De Beker.jpg
The 1988 trophy on display in Amsterdam
Rinus Michels Rinus Michels (1984).jpg
Rinus Michels

Rinus Michels returned, with his technical assistant Nol de Ruiter, to coach the team for Euro 1988 in West Germany. After losing the first group match against the Soviet Union 1–0, the Netherlands qualified for the semi-finals by defeating England 3–1 (with a hat-trick by Marco van Basten), and the Republic of Ireland 1–0. Van Basten scored against the hosts in the 89th minute to sink the German side, revenge for the 1974 World Cup. [30] The Netherlands won the final with a victory over the USSR with a header by Ruud Gullit and a volley by Van Basten. This was the national team's first major tournament win. [31]

The Netherlands was one of the favourites for the 1990 World Cup tournament in Italy, [32] but they scored only two goals in the group stage which featured England, Egypt and the Republic of Ireland. After finishing the group stage with identical records, the Netherlands and the Republic of Ireland drew lots to determine which team would finish second. The Netherlands had the tougher draw against West Germany, while the Republic of Ireland faced Romania. [33] The match against West Germany is mostly remembered for the spitting incident involving Frank Rijkaard and Rudi Völler as the Netherlands were defeated 2–1. [30]

The team reached the semi-finals in the Euro 1992 in Sweden, known for the emergence of Dennis Bergkamp. They were eliminated by eventual champions Denmark when Peter Schmeichel saved Van Basten's kick in the penalty shootout. [34] This was Van Basten's last major tournament as he suffered a serious ankle injury shortly after, and eventually retired at age 30 in 1995. It was also the last hurrah for Rinus Michels, who returned for one final spell in charge of the team before retiring for good after the tournament ended.

Dick Advocaat took over from Michels on the understanding that he would be replaced by Johan Cruyff the following year. [35] After talks between Cruyff and the KNVB broke down, Advocaat remained in charge of the national team for the 1994 World Cup in the United States. [36] In the World Cup, Van Basten and striker Ruud Gullit were injured; [37] Dennis Bergkamp led the team with three goals and the Netherlands advanced to the quarter-finals, where they lost 3–2 to eventual champions Brazil. [38]

Second golden generation: 1996–2014

Netherlands at the Euro 1996 match against Scotland at Villa Park stadium in Birmingham Scotland-holland euro 96.jpg
Netherlands at the Euro 1996 match against Scotland at Villa Park stadium in Birmingham

With Guus Hiddink as manager, the Netherlands went to Euro 1996. After finishing second in their group, they played France in the quarter-finals. With the score 0–0, the match went to penalties. Clarence Seedorf's shot in the fourth round was stopped by French goalkeeper Bernard Lama, and the penalty by Laurent Blanc eliminated the Netherlands. [39] After they finished top of the qualifying group, they were drawn in Group E of the 1998 World Cup. With the Netherlands team featuring Dennis Bergkamp, Marc Overmars, Phillip Cocu, Edgar Davids, Frank de Boer, Ronald de Boer and Patrick Kluivert, they reached the semi-finals where they again lost on penalties, this time to Brazil. They then lost the third place playoff to Croatia. [40] [41] Soon afterwards, Hiddink resigned, to be replaced by Frank Rijkaard. The Netherlands co-hosted Euro 2000 with Belgium and won all three games in the group stage and then defeated FR Yugoslavia 6–1 in the quarter-finals. In the semi-finals, Italian goalkeeper Francesco Toldo made two penalty shootout saves to eliminate the Netherlands. The team failed to qualify for the 2002 World Cup after crucial losses to Portugal and the Republic of Ireland, prompting manager Louis van Gaal to resign. [42]

Netherlands at the 2006 World Cup Training Netherlands in Freiburg.JPG
Netherlands at the 2006 World Cup

Dick Advocaat became the national coach of the Netherlands for the second time in January 2002. [43] His first match was a 1–1 draw against England in Rotterdam. [44] The Dutch finished second place in their qualifying group for Euro 2004. Having to play in the playoffs after losing to the Czech Republic, [45] they knocked out Scotland with a 6–0 win in the second leg to qualify for the Euros. [46] The tournament saw the Netherlands make it to the semi-finals where they lost to the hosts in Portugal. [47] Heavy criticism of his handling of the national team led Advocaat to quit. [48]

The Netherlands qualified for the 2006 World Cup under new manager Marco van Basten. They were eliminated in the second round after losing 1–0 to Portugal. The match produced 16 yellow cards, matching the World Cup record for most cautions in one game set in 2002, and set a new World Cup record of four red cards, two per side; [49] it was nicknamed "the Battle of Nuremberg" by the press. [50] Despite criticism surrounding his selection policy and the lack of attacking football from his team, Van Basten was offered a two-year extension to his contract by the KNVB. This allowed him to serve as national coach during Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup. [51] The Netherlands qualified for Euro 2008, where they were drawn in the "Group of Death", together with France, Italy and Romania. [52] They began with a 3–0 win over world champions Italy in Bern, their first victory over the Italians since 1978. They then beat France by 4–1 to qualify for the second round, and went on winning the group on nine points after beating Romania 2–0 with (mainly) their reserve players. However, they then lost in the quarter-finals to Guus Hiddink's Russia 3–1, with Ruud van Nistelrooy scoring an 86th-minute equaliser to force extra time, where the Russians scored twice through Andrey Arshavin. Following the tournament, Van Basten resigned having accepted the role at Ajax. [53]

Netherlands - France at Euro 2008 Holland - France Euro 2008 entrance into stadium.JPG
Netherlands – France at Euro 2008
Netherlands - Denmark at the 2010 World Cup Netherlands - Denmark WC2010.jpg
Netherlands – Denmark at the 2010 World Cup

Under new coach Bert van Marwijk, the Netherlands went on to secure a 100% record in their World Cup 2010 qualification campaign, winning all their eight games to qualify for the World Cup. After they had comfortably qualified with maximum points in Group E [54] and Slovakia [55] in the round of 16, they took on Brazil in the quarter-finals. After trailing 1–0 at half-time, Wesley Sneijder scored two goals in the second half to advance the team to the semis where they beat Uruguay 3–2. [56] They advanced to their first World Cup final since 1978 but fell to Spain 1–0 after midfielder Andrés Iniesta scored in extra time. [57] From August to September 2011, the team was ranked number one in the FIFA World Ranking, [58] becoming the second national football team, after Spain, to top the ranking without previously winning a World Cup.

For Euro 2012, the Netherlands were placed in Group B with Germany, Portugal and Denmark, dubbed the tournament "Group of Death". [59] The Netherlands lost all three of their group matches in a tournament for the first time in their history. Netherlands football legend Johan Cruyff criticised the team's star players for poor build up play and sloppy execution of the easy passes. [60] [61] Manager Bert van Marwijk resigned after the disappointment. [62]

Louis van Gaal became the manager for the second time. In the 2014 World Cup UEFA qualifying round, the Netherlands won nine games and drew one, topping the group and earning automatic qualification. They were drawn into Group B, alongside Spain, Chile and Australia. The team avenged their 2010 defeat by defeating title holders Spain 5–1 in their opening match, with Robin van Persie scoring an impressive header to equalize in the 44th minute. Van Persie scored another, Arjen Robben scored a brace and Stefan de Vrij scored one. [63]

The Netherlands team leaves the field after losing to Argentina at the 2014 World Cup. 2014 FIFIA World Cup, Semi final, NED-ARG(2).jpg
The Netherlands team leaves the field after losing to Argentina at the 2014 World Cup.

After finishing top of Group B, the Netherlands defeated Mexico 2–1 in the round of 16, with Wesley Sneijder equalising late in the match and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar scoring a controversial penalty after a foul on Arjen Robben in stoppage time. [64] In the quarter-finals, where they faced Costa Rica, the Netherlands had many shots on goal but could not score; the match finished in a 0–0 draw after extra time. The Netherlands won the ensuing penalty shootout 4–3. This was due in large part to backup goalkeeper Tim Krul who was brought on just before the end of extra time and made two saves. This marked the first time in World Cup history a goalkeeper was brought onto the field solely to participate in a shootout. [65]

The semi-finals against Argentina saw the Netherlands having a decent chance to score from Arjen Robben while containing Lionel Messi, as it remained scoreless after extra time. However, in penalty kicks, the Netherlands were eliminated 4–2, with Ron Vlaar and Wesley Sneijder having their spot kicks saved by Sergio Romero. [66] The Netherlands won the third place match against hosts Brazil. Van Gaal, who successfully motivated the team after their semi-final elimination, [67] received praise for getting more out of the young and inexperienced Netherlands squad than many expected. [68] [69]

Decline and recovery: 2014–present

Guus Hiddink followed Van Gaal as manager for the Euro 2016 qualifying campaign. On 29 June 2015, Hiddink resigned and was succeeded by his assistant Danny Blind. The Netherlands finished fourth in their group, failing to qualify for the European Championship for the first time since 1984, and missing a major tournament for the first time since the 2002 World Cup. [70] The team's poor form continued into the 2018 World Cup qualifiers, eventually resulting in Blind being dismissed after a 2–0 defeat to Bulgaria in March 2017. After the return of Dick Advocaat as coach, the Netherlands failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, finishing third in Group A behind France and Sweden. [71]

In February 2018, Advocaat was replaced by Ronald Koeman, on a contract until the summer of 2022. [72] The Netherlands qualified for League A in the UEFA Nations League which they would win to qualify for the final four after drawing with Germany on the last match day, beating France on the head-to-head record. [73] The Netherlands beat England in the semi-finals of the Nations League, but lost 1–0 in the final against Portugal. [74]

The Netherlands qualified for UEFA Euro 2020, [75] however following the qualification, Ronald Koeman resigned from the team to coach Barcelona, eventually to be succeeded by Frank de Boer. With the coronavirus pandemic postponing Euro 2020 to 2021, the Netherlands played their group matches at home at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam, beating Ukraine 3–2, Austria 2–0 and North Macedonia 3–0. However, the tournament ended in disappointment for the Netherlands once more, as they were beaten 2–0 by the Czech Republic in their round of 16 tie in Budapest, after a Matthijs de Ligt red card. Two days later, De Boer left his position. [76] He was replaced by Louis van Gaal, who came out of retirement to return for a third spell in charge of the side. [77] On 16 November 2021, the Netherlands qualified for the 2022 World Cup after beating Norway 2–0 and topping their qualification group on the final day. In the 2022 World Cup, the Netherlands topped their group with 7 points. They progressed to the quarter-finals where they eventually lost to Argentina on penalties. [78]

At UEFA Euro 2024, the Netherlands qualified from the group stage as one of the best third place teams after a win against Poland, a draw with France and a defeat to Austria. [79] [80] [81] In the round of 16, the Netherlands won 3–0 against Romania. [82] In the quarter-final, they faced Turkey who initially took the lead before Stefan de Vrij equalised for the Netherlands. The comeback was completed with an own goal by Mert Müldür meaning that the Netherlands qualified for the semi-finals for the first time since Euro 2004. [83] In the semi-final, they played England. An early goal from Simons, was cancelled out by an English penalty. A last minute goal by Ollie Watkins knocked the Netherlands out. [84]

Team image

Kits and crest

Dutch fans wearing the traditional orange colours at a 2006 World Cup match in Stuttgart Netherlands fans - 2006 FIFA World Cup.jpg
Dutch fans wearing the traditional orange colours at a 2006 World Cup match in Stuttgart

The Netherlands national football team famously plays in bright orange shirts. Orange is the historic national colour of the Netherlands, originating from one of the many title of the ruling head of state, Prince of Orange. The current Netherlands away shirt is blue. The lion on the crest is the Netherlands' national and royal animal and has been on the crest since 1907 when they won 3–1 over Belgium. [85] It is different from the women's team logo, which sports a lioness.

Nike is the national team's kit provider, a sponsorship that began in 1996 and is contracted to continue until at least 2026. [86] Before that the team was supplied by Adidas and Lotto. [87]

Kit suppliers

Kit supplierPeriodNotes
Flag of the Netherlands.svg Tweka [88] [89] 19??–1966
Flag of England.svg Umbro 1966–1969
Flag of the Netherlands.svg Jansen & Tilanus [90] [91] 1969–1974
Flag of Germany.svg Adidas 1974–1990
Flag of Italy.svg Lotto 1991–1996
Flag of the United States.svg Nike 1996–present

Rivalries

Deeply rooted in anti-German sentiment due to the occupation of the Netherlands by Germany during World War II, the Netherlands' long-time football rival is Germany. Beginning in 1974, when the Netherlands lost the 1974 World Cup to West Germany in the final, the rivalry between the two nations has become one of the best-known in international football. [92] [93]

To a lesser extent, the Netherlands maintains a rivalry with their other neighbour, Belgium; a Belgium–Netherlands fixture is referred to as a Low Countries derby. They have played in 126 matches as of May 2018 with the two competing against each other regularly between 1905 and 1964. This has diminished due to the rise of semi-professional football. [94]

In recent years, the Netherlands has also developed a intercontinental rivalry with Argentina. Recently known from the 2022 World Cup quarter-final match in Qatar, the match became known as the Battle of Lusail.

Media coverage

The Netherlands are broadcast on Nederlandse Omroep Stichting which includes all friendlies, Nations League matches and World Cup qualifiers. The newest contract is a seven-year deal until 2027. [95]

Home stadium

The Netherlands play most of their matches at Johan Cruyff Arena. Amsterdam ArenA1.jpg
The Netherlands play most of their matches at Johan Cruyff Arena.

The Netherlands national team does not have a national stadium but plays mostly at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam. It played host to its first Netherlands international game back in 1997, a 1998 World Cup qualification match against San Marino which the Netherlands won 4–0. [96] It was formally called the Amsterdam Arena until 2018 when it was renamed in memory of Johan Cruyff. [97]

Over the last few years, De Kuip in Rotterdam has hosted matches regularly and historically very often. Occasionally, matches take place at Philips Stadion in Eindhoven and also sometimes at the De Grolsch Veste in Enschede. [98]

Results and fixtures

The following is a list of match results in the last 12 months, as well as any future matches that have been scheduled.

  Win  Draw  Loss  Fixture

2024

22 March 2024 Friendly Netherlands  Flag of the Netherlands.svg4–0Flag of Scotland.svg  Scotland Amsterdam, Netherlands
20:45 (UTC+1)
Report Stadium: Johan Cruyff Arena
Attendance: 46,223
Referee: Erik Lambrechts (Belgium)
26 March 2024 Friendly Germany  Flag of Germany.svg2–1Flag of the Netherlands.svg  Netherlands Frankfurt, Germany
20:45 (UTC+1) Report Stadium: Waldstadion
Attendance: 48,390
Referee: Espen Eskås (Norway)
6 June 2024 Friendly Netherlands  Flag of the Netherlands.svg4–0Flag of Canada (Pantone).svg  Canada Rotterdam, Netherlands
20:45 (UTC+1)
Report Stadium: De Kuip
Referee: Rohit Saggi (Norway)
10 June 2024 Friendly Netherlands  Flag of the Netherlands.svg4–0Flag of Iceland.svg  Iceland Rotterdam, Netherlands
20:45 (UTC+1)
Report Stadium: De Kuip
Referee: Evangelos Manouchos (Greece)
16 June 2024 UEFA Euro 2024 Group D Poland  Flag of Poland.svg1–2Flag of the Netherlands.svg  Netherlands Hamburg, Germany
15:00 CEST (UTC+2)
Report
Stadium: Volksparkstadion
Attendance: 48,117
Referee: Artur Soares Dias (Portugal)
21 June 2024 UEFA Euro 2024 Group D Netherlands  Flag of the Netherlands.svg0–0Flag of France.svg  France Leipzig, Germany
21:00 CEST (UTC+2) Report Stadium: Red Bull Arena
Attendance: 38,531
Referee: Anthony Taylor (England)
25 June 2024 UEFA Euro 2024 Group D Netherlands  Flag of the Netherlands.svg2–3Flag of Austria.svg  Austria Berlin, Germany
18:00 CEST (UTC+2)
Report
Stadium: Olympiastadion
Attendance: 68,363
Referee: Ivan Kružliak (Slovakia)
2 July 2024 UEFA Euro 2024 Round of 16 Romania  Flag of Romania.svg0–3Flag of the Netherlands.svg  Netherlands Munich, Germany
18:00 CEST (UTC+2) Report
Stadium: Allianz Arena
Attendance: 65,012
Referee: Felix Zwayer (Germany)
6 July 2024 UEFA Euro 2024 Quarter-finals Netherlands  Flag of the Netherlands.svg2–1Flag of Turkey.svg  Turkey Berlin, Germany
21:00 CEST (UTC+2)
Report
Stadium: Olympiastadion
Attendance: 70,091
Referee: Clément Turpin (France)
10 July 2024 UEFA Euro 2024 Semi-finals Netherlands  Flag of the Netherlands.svg1–2Flag of England.svg  England Dortmund, Germany
21:00 CEST (UTC+2)
Report
Stadium: Westfalenstadion
Attendance: 60,926
Referee: Felix Zwayer (Germany)
7 September 2024 2024–25 UEFA Nations League Netherlands  Flag of the Netherlands.svg5–2Flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina.svg  Bosnia and Herzegovina Eindhoven, Netherlands
20:45 CEST (UTC+02:00)
Report Stadium: Philips Stadion
Attendance: 31,139
Referee: Donatas Rumšas (Lithuania)
10 September 2024 2024–25 UEFA Nations League Netherlands  Flag of the Netherlands.svg2–2Flag of Germany.svg  Germany Amsterdam, Netherlands
20:45 CEST (UTC+02:00) Report
Stadium: Johan Cruyff Arena
Attendance: 50,109
Referee: Davide Massa (Italy)
11 October 2024 2024–25 UEFA Nations League Hungary  Flag of Hungary.svg1–1Flag of the Netherlands.svg  Netherlands Budapest, Hungary
20:45 CEST (UTC+02:00)
Report Stadium: Puskás Aréna
Attendance: 55,300
Referee: Lukas Fähndrich (Switzerland)
14 October 2024 2024–25 UEFA Nations League Germany  Flag of Germany.svg1–0Flag of the Netherlands.svg  Netherlands Munich, Germany
20:45 CEST (UTC+02:00) Report Stadium: Allianz Arena
Attendance: 68,367
Referee: Slavko Vinčić (Slovenia)
16 November 2024 2024–25 UEFA Nations League Netherlands  Flag of the Netherlands.svg4–0Flag of Hungary.svg  Hungary Amsterdam, Netherlands
20:45 CET (UTC+01:00)
Report Stadium: Johan Cruyff Arena
Attendance: 51,611
Referee: Jesús Gil Manzano (Spain)
19 November 2024 2024–25 UEFA Nations League Bosnia and Herzegovina  Flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina.svg1–1Flag of the Netherlands.svg  Netherlands Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina
20:45 CET (UTC+01:00) Report
Stadium: Bilino Polje Stadium
Attendance: 4,134
Referee: Aliyar Aghayev (Azerbaijan)

2025

20 March 2025 2024–25 UEFA Nations League QF Netherlands  Flag of the Netherlands.svgvFlag of Spain.svg  Spain Rotterdam, Netherlands
20:45 CET (UTC+01:00) Report Stadium: De Kuip
23 March 2025 2024–25 UEFA Nations League QF Spain  Flag of Spain.svgvFlag of the Netherlands.svg  Netherlands Spain
20:45 CET (UTC+01:00) Report Stadium: TBD

Coaching staff

PositionName
Head coach Flag of the Netherlands.svg Ronald Koeman
Assistant coaches Flag of the Netherlands.svg Erwin Koeman
Flag of the Netherlands.svg Wim Jonk
Goalkeeping coach Flag of the Netherlands.svg Patrick Lodewijks
Fitness coaches Flag of the Netherlands.svg Jan Kluitenberg
Flag of the Netherlands.svg Martin Cruijff
Team manager Flag of the Netherlands.svg Cor Asp
Sports Scientist Flag of the Netherlands.svg David van Maurik
Physiotherapist(s) Flag of the Netherlands.svg Ricardo de Sanders
Flag of the Netherlands.svg Gert-Jan Goudswaard
Flag of the Netherlands.svg Luc van Agt
Doctor(s) Flag of the Netherlands.svg Edwin Goedhart
Flag of the Netherlands.svg Rien Heijboer
Masseurs Flag of the Netherlands.svg Rob Koster
Analyst(s) Flag of the Netherlands.svg Cees Lok
Flag of the Netherlands.svg Gert Aandewiel
Flag of the Netherlands.svg Dennis Demmers

Coaching history

Players

Current squad

The following 25 players were included in the squad for 2024–25 UEFA Nations League A matches against Hungary and Bosnia and Herzegovina on 16 and 19 November 2024, respectively. [99]

Caps and goals are correct as of 19 November 2024, after the match against Flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina.svg  Bosnia and Herzegovina . [100]

No.Pos.PlayerDate of birth (age)CapsGoalsClub
11 GK Bart Verbruggen (2002-08-18) 18 August 2002 (age 22)180 Flag of England.svg Brighton & Hove Albion
131 GK Nick Olij (1995-08-01) 1 August 1995 (age 29)00 Flag of the Netherlands.svg Sparta Rotterdam
231 GK Mark Flekken (1993-06-13) 13 June 1993 (age 31)80 Flag of England.svg Brentford

22 DF Jan Paul van Hecke (2000-06-08) 8 June 2000 (age 24)20 Flag of England.svg Brighton & Hove Albion
32 DF Jurriën Timber (2001-06-17) 17 June 2001 (age 23)180 Flag of England.svg Arsenal
42 DF Matthijs de Ligt (1999-08-12) 12 August 1999 (age 25)492 Flag of England.svg Manchester United
52 DF Jorrel Hato (2006-03-07) 7 March 2006 (age 18)50 Flag of the Netherlands.svg Ajax
62 DF Stefan de Vrij (1992-02-05) 5 February 1992 (age 32)734 Flag of Italy.svg Internazionale
122 DF Jeremie Frimpong (2000-12-10) 10 December 2000 (age 24)101 Flag of Germany.svg Bayer Leverkusen
152 DF Devyne Rensch (2003-01-18) 18 January 2003 (age 21)20 Flag of the Netherlands.svg Ajax
222 DF Denzel Dumfries (1996-04-18) 18 April 1996 (age 28)639 Flag of Italy.svg Internazionale

73 MF Mats Wieffer (1999-11-16) 16 November 1999 (age 25)121 Flag of England.svg Brighton & Hove Albion
83 MF Ryan Gravenberch (2002-05-16) 16 May 2002 (age 22)181 Flag of England.svg Liverpool
143 MF Tijjani Reijnders (1998-07-29) 29 July 1998 (age 26)203 Flag of Italy.svg Milan
163 MF Quinten Timber (2001-06-17) 17 June 2001 (age 23)50 Flag of the Netherlands.svg Feyenoord
203 MF Teun Koopmeiners (1998-02-28) 28 February 1998 (age 26)233 Flag of Italy.svg Juventus

94 FW Wout Weghorst (1992-08-07) 7 August 1992 (age 32)4314 Flag of the Netherlands.svg Ajax
104 FW Noa Lang (1999-06-17) 17 June 1999 (age 25)122 Flag of the Netherlands.svg PSV Eindhoven
114 FW Cody Gakpo (1999-05-07) 7 May 1999 (age 25)3614 Flag of England.svg Liverpool
174 FW Justin Kluivert (1999-05-05) 5 May 1999 (age 25)30 Flag of England.svg Bournemouth
184 FW Donyell Malen (1999-01-19) 19 January 1999 (age 25)419 Flag of Germany.svg Borussia Dortmund
194 FW Brian Brobbey (2002-02-01) 1 February 2002 (age 22)71 Flag of the Netherlands.svg Ajax
214 FW Joshua Zirkzee (2001-05-22) 22 May 2001 (age 23)61 Flag of England.svg Manchester United

Recent call-ups

The following players have also been called up for the team in the last twelve months.

Pos.PlayerDate of birth (age)CapsGoalsClubLatest call-up
GK Justin Bijlow (1998-01-22) 22 January 1998 (age 26)80 Flag of the Netherlands.svg Feyenoord UEFA Euro 2024

DF Virgil van Dijk (captain) (1991-07-08) 8 July 1991 (age 33)789 Flag of England.svg Liverpool v. Flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina.svg  Bosnia and Herzegovina , 19 November 2024
DF Lutsharel Geertruida (2000-07-18) 18 July 2000 (age 24)140 Flag of Germany.svg RB Leipzig v. Flag of Germany.svg  Germany , 14 October 2024
DF Micky van de Ven (2001-04-19) 19 April 2001 (age 23)100 Flag of England.svg Tottenham Hotspur v. Flag of Germany.svg  Germany , 14 October 2024
DF Ian Maatsen (2002-03-10) 10 March 2002 (age 22)00 Flag of England.svg Aston Villa v. Flag of Germany.svg  Germany , 14 October 2024
DF Nathan Aké (1995-02-18) 18 February 1995 (age 29)535 Flag of England.svg Manchester City v. Flag of Germany.svg  Germany , 10 September 2024
DF Daley Blind RET (1990-03-09) 9 March 1990 (age 34)1083 Flag of Spain.svg Girona UEFA Euro 2024
DF Quilindschy Hartman (2001-11-14) 14 November 2001 (age 23)41 Flag of the Netherlands.svg Feyenoord v. Flag of Scotland.svg  Scotland , 22 March 2024 INJ

MF Frenkie de Jong (1997-05-12) 12 May 1997 (age 27)552 Flag of Spain.svg Barcelona v. Flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina.svg  Bosnia and Herzegovina , 19 November 2024
MF Xavi Simons (2003-04-21) 21 April 2003 (age 21)243 Flag of Germany.svg RB Leipzig v. Flag of Germany.svg  Germany , 14 October 2024
MF Guus Til (1997-12-22) 22 December 1997 (age 26)61 Flag of the Netherlands.svg PSV Eindhoven v. Flag of Germany.svg  Germany , 14 October 2024
MF Jerdy Schouten (1997-01-12) 12 January 1997 (age 27)130 Flag of the Netherlands.svg PSV Eindhoven v. Flag of Germany.svg  Germany , 10 September 2024
MF Georginio Wijnaldum (1990-11-11) 11 November 1990 (age 34)9628 Flag of Saudi Arabia.svg Al-Ettifaq UEFA Euro 2024
MF Joey Veerman (1998-11-19) 19 November 1998 (age 26)161 Flag of the Netherlands.svg PSV Eindhoven UEFA Euro 2024
MF Marten de Roon (1991-03-29) 29 March 1991 (age 33)421 Flag of Italy.svg Atalanta UEFA Euro 2024 PREINJ

FW Memphis Depay (1994-02-13) 13 February 1994 (age 30)9846 Flag of Brazil.svg Corinthians UEFA Euro 2024
FW Steven Bergwijn (1997-10-08) 8 October 1997 (age 27)358 Flag of Saudi Arabia.svg Al-Ittihad UEFA Euro 2024

INJ Player withdrew from the squad due to an injury.
FIT Player withdrew from the squad due to fitness concerns.
PRE Preliminary squad.
RET Player had announced retirement from national team.
SUS Player is serving a suspension.
PRI Player absent due to private circumstances.

Individual statistics

Player records

As of 6 July 2024. [101]
Players in bold are still active with the Netherlands.

Most appearances

Wesley Sneijder is the Netherlands' most capped player with 134 appearances. Wesley Sneijder (15487233555) (cropped).jpg
Wesley Sneijder is the Netherlands' most capped player with 134 appearances.
RankPlayerMatchesGoalsCareer
1 Wesley Sneijder 134312003–2018
2 Edwin van der Sar 13001995–2008
3 Frank de Boer 112131990–2004
4 Rafael van der Vaart 109252001–2013
5 Daley Blind 10832013–2024
6 Giovanni van Bronckhorst 10661996–2010
7 Dirk Kuyt 104242004–2014
8 Robin van Persie 102502005–2017
9 Phillip Cocu 101101996–2006
10 Memphis Depay 98462013–present

Top goalscorers

Striker Robin van Persie is the Netherlands' top scorer with 50 goals. Van Persie (15300483040) (crop).jpg
Striker Robin van Persie is the Netherlands' top scorer with 50 goals.
RankPlayerGoalsMatchesRatioCareer
1 Robin van Persie 50 1020.492005–2017
2 Memphis Depay 46 980.472013–present
3 Klaas-Jan Huntelaar 42760.552006–2015
4 Patrick Kluivert 40790.511994–2004
5 Dennis Bergkamp 37790.471990–2000
Arjen Robben 37960.392003–2017
7 Faas Wilkes 35380.921946–1961
Ruud van Nistelrooy 35700.51998–2011
9 Abe Lenstra 33470.71940–1959
Johan Cruyff 33480.691966–1977

Manager records

Team records

Competitive record

FIFA World Cup

The Netherlands' first two tournament appearances at the 1934 and the 1938 editions saw them lose their first round matches to Switzerland (1934) and Czechoslovakia (1938). [102] [103]

After not qualifying for the next six World Cups, they qualified for the 1974 FIFA World Cup in West Germany. They lost in the final to the hosts 2–1 with Gerd Müller scoring the winning goal for the Germans. [20] The Netherlands once again made the 1978 FIFA World Cup final with the team finishing second in the group behind Peru. After finishing top of the all-European group in the second round, they met Argentina in the final. Argentina protested René van de Kerkhof's forearm plaster cast. After that protest, the game went to extra time where Argentina won 3–1 after scoring two goals in extra time. [25]

The 1990 edition saw the Netherlands not win a single game throughout the tournament, scoring only two goals in the group stage. [33] [104] 1994 saw the Netherlands knocked out in the quarter-final stage as they lost to eventual champions Brazil with Branco's brutal free-kick sending them out. [38] After qualifying from their group with five points, the Netherlands made the semi-finals of the 1998 edition where they once again lost to the Brazilians. This time it was by penalties; Phillip Cocu and Ronald de Boer's shots missed the goal to give Brazil a spot in the final. The Netherlands went on to finish in fourth place after losing to Croatia in the third place playoff. [105]

In 2006, the Netherlands made it to the round of 16 where, in what was called the "Battle of Nuremberg" they lost by a single goal to Portugal. The Netherlands were given seven yellow cards. [50] The following edition, in 2010, saw the team qualify to the knockout stage by finishing atop Group E. After defeating Slovakia 2–1 in the round of 16, they came back from an early goal by Robinho to defeat Brazil 2–1 in the quarter-finals as Wesley Sneijder scored a double. [55] [56] In the semi-finals, they defeated Uruguay in a tough game for the Netherlands, making their first World Cup final since 1978. [106] In the final, they took on Spain, with La Roja scoring the winning goal in the 116th minute. [107] [57]

In 2014, the Netherlands finished atop Group B with wins over Spain, Australia and Chile. [108] The Netherlands took bronze in the tournament after defeating host nation Brazil 3–0 in the third place playoff. [65] [109]

With the Netherlands having failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, falling behind France and Sweden in the qualifying group stage, they qualified for the 2022 World Cup. They defeated Senegal in the group stage, followed by a draw against Ecuador, and a win over hosts Qatar. In the Round of 16 the Netherlands defeated the United States 3-1, only to lose to eventual champions Argentina in the Quarter Finals in a penalty shootout after 2-2.

 Champions    Runners-up    Third place  

FIFA World Cup record Qualification record
YearRoundPositionPldWDLGFGASquadPldWDLGFGA
Flag of Uruguay.svg 1930 Did not enterDid not enter
Flag of Italy (1861-1946).svg 1934 Round of 169th100123 Squad 220094
Flag of France.svg 1938 14th100103 Squad 211051
Flag of Brazil.svg 1950 Did not enterDid not enter
Flag of Switzerland (Pantone).svg 1954
Flag of Sweden.svg 1958 Did not qualify4211127
Flag of Chile.svg 1962 302147
Flag of England.svg 1966 622264
Flag of Mexico.svg 1970 631295
Flag of Germany.svg 1974 Runners-up 2nd7511153 Squad 6420242
Flag of Argentina.svg 1978 Runners-up 2nd73221510 Squad 6510113
Flag of Spain.svg 1982 Did not qualify8413117
Flag of Mexico.svg 1986 8413137
Flag of Italy.svg 1990 Round of 1615th403134 Squad 642082
Flag of the United States.svg 1994 Quarter-finals7th530286 Squad 10631299
Flag of France (lighter variant).svg 1998 Fourth place4th7331137 Squad 8611264
Flag of South Korea (1997-2011).svg Flag of Japan.svg 2002 Did not qualify10622309
Flag of Germany.svg 2006 Round of 1611th421132 Squad 121020273
Flag of South Africa.svg 2010 Runners-up 2nd7601126 Squad 8800172
Flag of Brazil.svg 2014 Third place3rd7520154 Squad 10910345
Flag of Russia.svg 2018 Did not qualify106132112
Flag of Qatar.svg 2022 Quarter-finals5th5320104 Squad 10721338
Flag of Canada (Pantone).svg Flag of Mexico.svg Flag of the United States.svg 2026 To be determinedTo be determined
Flag of Morocco.svg Flag of Portugal.svg Flag of Spain.svg 2030
Flag of Saudi Arabia.svg 2034
TotalRunners-up11/22553014119652135892620329101

UEFA European Championship

UEFA European Championship record Qualifying record
YearRoundPositionPldWDLGFGASquadPldWDLGFGA
Flag of France.svg 1960 Did not enterDid not enter
Flag of Spain (1945-1977).svg 1964 Did not qualify412165
Flag of Italy.svg 1968 62131111
Flag of Belgium (civil).svg 1972 6312186
Flag of Yugoslavia (1946-1992).svg 1976 Third place3rd210145 Squad 8602219
Flag of Italy.svg 1980 Group stage5th311144 Squad 8611206
Flag of France (lighter variant).svg 1984 Did not qualify8611226
Flag of Germany.svg 1988 Champions 1st540183 Squad 8620151
Flag of Sweden.svg 1992 Semi-finals3rd422063 Squad 8611172
Flag of England.svg 1996 Quarter-finals8th412134 Squad 11722255
Flag of Belgium (civil).svg Flag of the Netherlands.svg 2000 Semi-finals3rd5410133 Squad Qualified as hosts
Flag of Portugal.svg 2004 3rd512276 Squad 10712267
Flag of Austria.svg Flag of Switzerland (Pantone).svg 2008 Quarter-finals6th4301104 Squad 12822155
Flag of Poland.svg Flag of Ukraine.svg 2012 Group stage15th300325 Squad 10901378
Flag of France (lighter variant).svg 2016 Did not qualify104151714
Flag of Europe.svg 2020 Round of 169th430184 Squad 8611247
Flag of Germany.svg 2024 Semi-finals3rd6312107 Squad 8602177
Flag of the United Kingdom.svg Flag of Ireland.svg 2028 To be determinedTo be determined
Flag of Italy.svg Flag of Turkey.svg 2032
Total1 Title11/174523913754812583162629199

Olympic Games

Olympic Games record
YearRoundPldWDLGFGASquad
Flag of the United Kingdom.svg 1908 Bronze medal210124 Squad
Flag of Sweden.svg 1912 Bronze medal4301178 Squad
Flag of Belgium (civil).svg 1920 Bronze medal4202910 Squad
Flag of France.svg 1924 Fourth place5212117 Squad
Flag of the Netherlands.svg 1928 Round of 16100102 Squad
Flag of Germany (1935-1945).svg 1936 Did not enter
Flag of the United Kingdom.svg 1948 Round of 16210165 Squad
Flag of Finland.svg 1952 Round of 16100115 Squad
Flag of Australia (converted).svg 1956 Did not enter
Flag of Italy.svg 1960
Flag of Japan (1870-1999).svg 1964
Flag of Mexico.svg 1968
Flag of Germany.svg 1972
Flag of Canada (Pantone).svg 1976
Flag of the Soviet Union.svg 1980
Flag of the United States.svg 1984 Did not qualify
Flag of South Korea (1984-1997).svg 1988
Since 1992 See Netherlands national under-21 football team
Total7/17239194641

Since 1992, the Olympic Games has been an under-23 tournament (with three players of over 23 years of age allowed in the squad).

UEFA Nations League

UEFA Nations League record
League phaseFinalsRK
SeasonLGGrpPosPldWDLGFGAP/RRKYearRoundPldWDLGFGASquad
2018–19 A 1 1st421184Steady3.svg3rd Flag of Portugal.svg 2019 Runners-up 210132 Squad 2nd
2020–21 A 1 2nd632174Steady3.svg6th Flag of Italy.svg 2021 Did not qualify6th
2022–23 A 4 1st6510146Steady3.svg1st Flag of the Netherlands.svg 2023 Fourth place200247 Squad 4th
2024–25 A 3 2nd6231137Steady3.svg6thFlag of none.svg 2025 To be determinedTBD
Total1610422914N/ATotal4103792nd

FIFA Ranking

Last update was on 21 December 2023. Source: [110] The FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking - Associations - Netherlands - Men's

 Worst Ranking   Best Ranking   Worst Mover   Best Mover  

Netherlands's FIFA world ranking
RankYearGames
played
WonDrawnLostBestWorst
RankMoveRankMove
7199375122Increase2.svg 516Decrease2.svg 9
61994159332Increase2.svg 911Decrease2.svg 6
6199595045Increase2.svg 1217Decrease2.svg 9
91996116326Increase2.svg 713Decrease2.svg 5
22199774124Increase2.svg 422Decrease2.svg 10
 111998158526Increase2.svg 1925Decrease2.svg 11
19199990728Increase2.svg 319Decrease2.svg 3
82000149418Increase2.svg 1321Decrease2.svg 2
82001106317Increase2.svg 210Decrease2.svg 1
6200276106Increase2.svg 415Decrease2.svg 6
42003116324Increase2.svg 27Decrease2.svg 3
62004178544Increase2.svg 16Decrease2.svg 1
32005117312Increase2.svg 27Decrease2.svg 1
72006146443Increase2.svg 06Decrease2.svg 3
92007127325Increase2.svg 29Decrease2.svg 3
32008156363Increase2.svg 510Decrease2.svg 1
32009115332Increase2.svg 13Decrease2.svg 1
220101715112Increase2.svg 24Decrease2.svg 1
 22011116221Increase2.svg 12Decrease2.svg 1
82012137162Increase2.svg 28Decrease2.svg 4
92013127505Increase2.svg 49Decrease2.svg 4
52014179353Increase2.svg 1215Decrease2.svg 4
14201594145Increase2.svg 216Decrease2.svg 7
  2220161153314Increase2.svg 426Decrease2.svg 12
2020171180320Increase2.svg 936Decrease2.svg 11
1420181044214Increase2.svg 221Decrease2.svg 1
1420191071212Increase2.svg 116Decrease2.svg 2
142020833213Increase2.svg 115Decrease2.svg 2
10202116113210Increase2.svg 116Decrease2.svg 2
62023106046Increase2.svg 47Decrease2.svg 1

Honours

Major competitions

Friendly

Summary

CompetitionGold medal icon.svgSilver medal icon.svgBronze medal icon.svgTotal
FIFA World Cup 0314
Olympic Games 0033
UEFA European Championship 1012
UEFA Nations League 0101
Total14510

See also

Notes

  1. Note that this match is not considered to be a full international by the English Football Association, and does not appear in the records of the England team, because professional football had already been introduced in England at that time. In the Netherlands, however, professional football was not introduced until 1954. Before then, players who left the Netherlands to turn pro in another country were banned from the national team.

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