Netherlands – FOOTBALL BOOK REVIEWS (FBR)

2022 World Cup – Saturday 10 December 2022

Croatia 1 (0) – (0) 1 Brazil AET. Croatia won 4-2 on penalties (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Croatia scorer: Petkovic (117′). Brazil scorer: Neymar (105’+1’)

Well, well, well. Europe 1, South America 0. So Brazil might have been favourites and five-time World Champions but the Croats care little for reputation and just went about their business to dump out Neymar and his samba dancing pals.

After a quiet first-half, Brazil totally dominated the second forty-five and but for numerous saves from Dominik Livakovic they would have cruised through. However, there was no panic from Croatia even when Neymar scored an excellent goal in extra time. He started the move, played two one-two’s, riding a challenge before rounding the ‘keeper to fire home – a special goal indeed. Croatia though just kept going and with three minutes left, broke down the pitch where Petkovic swept home with a slight deflection taking it beyond Alisson.

And so to penalties. Livakovic having starred again Japan in the shoot-out in the last sixteen, once again was the hero, saving Rodrygo’s first spot kick. Croatia were perfect with all of their first four which put the pressure on Marquinhos. However, when he struck the post, it was adeus Brazil with Croatia into a second successive World Cup Semi-Final.

Netherlands 2 (0) – (1) 2 Argentina AET. Argentina won 4-3 on penalties. (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail)

Netherlands scorers: Weghorst (83’minutes, 90’+11minutes). Argentina scorers: Molina (35’minutes), Messi (73’minutes pen)

Europe 1, South America 1…another drama filled game, dominated by an over officious referee with 17 yellow cards and one 1 red issued, with ugly confrontational scenes between the teams and their benches at the end of extra time and penalties.

When Messi stroked home a penalty with seventeen minutes remaining the game looked done and dusted at 2-0 to Argentina. The Dutch had nothing to lose and went more direct, and even though they got one back with seven minutes reaming through a lovely Weghorst header it seemed as if it was just a consolation. Then deep into time added on, a quite brilliantly worked free-kick move saw Netherlands draw level through Weghorst’ s second goal. Extra time was dominated by Argentina in the second fifteen, but it was penalties once more.

Aston Villa’s ‘keeper Emi Martinez has a great record saving penalties and proved it once again, making saves from the first two Dutch spot-kicks which was enough to see Argentina through 4-3. The celebrations were all the greater knowing that their South American rivals Brazil has exited earlier.

Morocco v Portugal (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha)

The third World Cup meeting between these sides, with the first at the finals in Mexico. It was a group stage game with Morocco winning 3-1. Portugal gained some revenge with a 1-0 win in 2018 with Ronaldo getting the vital goal.

After the drama of the opening two Quarter Finals, who knows what this one will bring. Will Ronaldo be back in the starting line up or do they stick to the side that demolished South Korea? Morocco should not be taken lightly as they have shown resilience and no little skill to make it this far. They will be hoping it’s not a game too far.

England v France (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor)

For me this tie will take me back to Spain 1982. The glorious sunshine, the weird echoey commentary and crowd noise, a squad number system based on surname (Trevor Brooking wore No:3, Tony Woodcock No: 21) and no makers logo on the Three Lions legendary Admiral kits.

Against the French in the group stages Bryan Robson scored after 27 seconds, only for France to level, but a second goal from Robson and a volley from the late great Paul Mariner sealed a 3-1 win. Oh that today will be as comfortable! Les Bleus are a team of many talents – from Lloris in goal through to Mbappe up front. This is a real tester for England and go into the game as underdogs.

But as this tournament has shown anything can happen.

PS. Did anyone mention England beat France 2-0 with a Roger Hunt brace on the way to winning the 1966 World Cup?

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2022 World Cup – Sunday 04 December 2022

Netherlands 3 (2) – (0) 1 USA (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Netherland scorers: Depay (10′), Blind (45’+1’), Dumfries (81′). USA scorer: Wright (76′)

And so the business end of the competition begins. Draws now not an option, only victory will do whether within the ninety-minutes, extra-time or indeed the lottery that is penalties.

First up were the Netherlands and the USA. These two had never played each other in a competitive fixtures, with just five friendlies previously. The last outing saw the USA beat the Dutch for the first time way back in 2015 when they came back from 3-1 down to win 4-3. However, despite the Dutch being less than convincing so far, they were expected to overcome the Americans, joint hosts of the 2026 World Cup.

Statistics have become a major thing in football analysis, but they don’t win you games. The USA had more possession, shots, shots on target and corners than their Dutch opponents but the vital statistic was that Netherlands won 3-1. Chelsea’s Christian Pulisic had an early chance, but his effort was well saved by Dutch ‘keeper Andries Noppert and the Americans were made to rue the missed opportunity when on ten minutes a 21 pass move was finished off by Memphis Depay. The USA though then dominated much of the first half but were then dealt another blow as in time added on, Daley Blind finished from a swift Dutch break. Into the second period and the USA searched desperately to get back into the game, which they did with fourteen minutes to go, as Haji Wright got something on a Pulisic which lopped the ball into the net. Was there a surprise yet? However, the Dutch wrapped the game up five minutes later as an unmarked Denzel Dumfries volleyed home to set up a Quarter-Final tie against Argentina.

Argentina 2 (1) – (0) 1 Australia (Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Argentina scorers: Messi (35’minutes), Alvarez (57’minutes). Australia scorers: Fernandez (77′ og)

This was Lionel Messi’s 1,000th career appearance and he produced a Man of the Match performance to see Argentina through to the last eight. Australia were dogged for the opening thirty-five minutes, but the deadlock was broken by an excellent strike from Messi. If their first goal was all about a classy finish the second was all about an Australian howler. Socceroos ‘keeper Mat Ryan was at fault as he tried to clear his lines, losing possession and leaving Alvarez to roll home into an unguarded net. Despite being second best all game Australia got a lifeline with thirteen minutes to go as substitute Craig Goodwin’s shot took a massive deflection off Enzo Fernandez. And it could have got worse for Argentina as the Aussies had two late glorious chances to level. The reality was though that Argentina were worthy winners, and a draw would have been an injustice. Messi and his charges now take on the Dutch in a re-run of the 1978 World Cup Final.

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2022 World Cup – Wednesday 30 November 2022

Group A:

Ecuador 1 (0) – (1) 2 Senegal (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Ecuador scorer: Caicedo (67′). Senegal scorers: Sarr (44′ pen), Koulibaly (70′)

Netherlands 2 (1) – (0) 0 Qatar (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor)

Netherlands scorers: Gakpo (26′), de Jong (49′)

Going into the final round the table order was, Netherlands, Ecuador, Senegal and Qatar. For the Dutch their win over the hapless hosts Qatar was no surprise, although Cody Gakpo’s reputation was given another boost as he scored again to record three goals in three games, with the points sealed by a de Jong tap-in early in the second half. The win enough to ensure top spot. Just for the record, Qatar became the first host nation to exit the tournament with three group-stage losses, finishing bottom with no points.

The real interest in Group A was over at the Khalifa International Stadium. Both sides had the chance progress, with Ecuador knowing a draw would be enough for them. However, it was the Senegalese Lions of Teranga who came to dominate the game. Without their star player Sadio Mane there was concern that Senegal would struggle. However, Watford winger set them on their way a minute before the break coolly slotting home a penalty. The English connection continued in the second half, with Brighton’s Moises Caicedo levelling for Ecuador somewhat against the run of play on sixty-seven minutes. The Tricolours joy was short-lived though, as just three minutes later Chelsea’s Kalidou Koulibaly’s side footed volley restored Senegal’s lead, one they held onto at the whistle.

This is Senegal’s third World Cup, having debuted in 2002 and also participating in 2018. In Russia they exited in the group stages, but in 2002 beat Sweden 2-1 (AET) in the last sixteen, before exiting 1-0 to Turkey in the Quarter Finals. England beware.

Group B:

Wales 0 (0) – (0) 3 England (Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)

England scorers: Rashford (50′, 68′), Foden (51′)

Iran 0 (0) – (1) 1 USA (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha)

USA scorer: Pulisic (38′)

The table before these final fixtures saw England top, with Iran second, USA third and Wales bottom.

As with Ecuador earlier in the day, Iran knew that a point would be enough. However, with what was at stake, the game lacked a real intensity. The USA created more in the opening half and deserved their 1-0 advantage through Pulisic. Iran had a late claim for a penalty rejected, but with only one shot on target in the game it told you all you needed to know about this game. USA through to play the Netherlands.

The Three Lions knew that they had their fate in their hands and dominated Wales from the off with great energy and pressing that had been missing from the game against the USA but couldn’t find a finish. That was all put right in the second half as three goals in eighteen minutes extinguished the Red Dragons and their faint hopes of progress. The Welsh looked on the ropes during that second forty-five and for many of their senior players it was their last hurrah at a World Cup. Of course (without being patronising) it was an achievement for them to qualify – yes we know the last time as 1958. However, will just leave these here from a couple of the Welsh squad: Sorba Thomas, “We don’t fear England, never have. Whether that’s football, rugby, whatever, we don’t fear England and for us why not we be the ones to knock them out.” Kieffer Moore, “can’t wait to knock England out of the World Cup.”

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2022 World Cup – Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 November

Group B: Wales 0 (0) – (0) 2 Iran (Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Iran scorers: Cheshmi (90’+8’), Rezaeian (90’+11’)

The Welsh will say that the sending-off of ‘keeper Wayne Hennessey with four minutes remaining was the turning point in this game, but the harsh truth is that Iran were the better side even before the red card. Gareth Bale had a quiet game and all in all it was a nervy and lacklustre performance from a side known for its passion and fighting qualities. Was there a touch of complacency on the part of the Wales team? Were they too focused on saying what they are going to do to England without dealing with the game in front of them? Whatever the reason, Wales are now in real danger of being on an early flight home.

Group A: Qatar 1 (0) – (1) 3 Senegal (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha)

Qatar scorer: Muntari (78′). Senegal scorers: Dia (41′), Diedhiou (48′), Dieng (84′).

Thankfully the results in Group A today meant that the hosts are out. What was telling yet again was the sight of ‘fans’ hitting the exits at half-time. Proof if needed that there is no appetite for the game in the country. I just hope those who voted for Qatar enjoy their thirty pieces of silver. It’s a tournament doing nothing for the game except bringing controversy.

Group A: Netherlands 1 (1) – (0) 1 Ecuador (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Netherlands scorer: Gakpo (6′). Ecuador scorer: E Valencia (49′)

The Dutch have been deeply criticised by their own media and pundits back home and this display showed why. They scored early in this game through Cody Gakpo with a powerful strike but then struggled therein after although credit must go to spirited Ecuador side. The South American’s will have felt slightly aggrieved that they had a first half goal struck off, with the decision that a player was in an offside position and in the ‘keepers eye-line. However, they were level soon after a Enner Valencia scored his third of this tournament with a tap-in and could have gone ahead when a Gonzalo Plata effort rattled the crossbar. All to play for in the final round of games, with the Netherlands, Ecuador and Senegal battling for the two places to progress.

Group B: England 0 (0) – (0) 0 USA (Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor)

It was mentioned more than once in commentary that this was a mirror of the Euros when England drew 0-0 with Scotland in their second group game. Then as now it was a poor performance, but it meant the Three Lions have their destiny in their own hands when they face Wales next week. This was a return to the disappointing displays of this summer and once again dissenting voices questioned Gareth Southgate’s tactic and substitutions during this encounter. Credit though to the USA for getting their tactics right and more than deserving a point.

Group D: Tunisia 0 (0) – (1) 1 Australia (Al Janoub Stadium, Al Wakrah)

Australia scorer: Duke (23′)

Whilst driving I caught the last 15 minutes of this game on the radio, and it sounded all Tunisia and only some superb defending and solid goalkeeping from Mat Ryan preserved their clean sheet and enabled the Aussies to claim the win thanks to a deft header in the first half thanks to Mitchell Duke. Australia know that victory over the Danes in their final game would guarantee a place in the last sixteen.

Group C: Poland 2 (1) – (0) 0 Saudi Arabia (Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Poland scorers: Zielinski (39′), Lewandowski (82′)

By the time I arrived at my destination (Long Eaton United v Pontefract Collieries) this game was already underway, and despite the fact that the fixture was on various screens, their seemed little appetite for the action, which is a shame given from the highlights it looked a bit of a cracker with chances and incidents galore. Whilst 2-0 looks a solid win, it tells nothing of the Saudi’s attacking threat and some great saves from Wojciech Szczesny in the Polish goal including an excellent penalty save at the end of the first half. Robert Lewandowski scored late on to seal the points and take Poland top of the group.

Group D: France 2 (0) – (0) 1 Denmark (Stadium 974, Doha)

France scorer: Mbappe (61′, 86′). Denmark scorer: Christensen (68′)

France secured the win and a place in the last sixteen with a late win in an entertaining encounter. Les Bleus dominated the first forty-five but couldn’t finish any of the chances they created. It took until just after the hour to go ahead from Mbappe which spurned Denmark into action and indeed they levelled on sixty-eight minutes. Both sides had chances to win it but with four minutes remaining it was the World Champions who claimed the win with Mbappa bundling in at the post for his and France’s second goal.

Group C: Argentina 2 (0) – (0) 0 Mexico (Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail)

Argentina scorers: Messi (64′), Fernandez (87′)

After the shock defeat to Saudi Arabia, Argentina knew that nothing but a victory would be enough against Mexico. Given that pressure it was perhaps not surprising that this was best described as a cagey game. It took two smart finishes from Messi and Fernandez to see off the spirited Mexicans. Poland await Argentina in the final game of the group stage, whilst Mexico play Saudi Arabia will the group wide open.

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2022 World Cup – Monday 21 November 2022

The BBC were first out the blocks showing live the opening game of the competition and the hour before the first game was unlike any other build-up I’d witnessed for previous World Cups. The first thirty minutes were more akin to a political programme, as the show provided background and context from the awarding of the hosting to Qatar in 2010 whilst also highlighting the issues around the regarding Qatar’s stance on same-sex relationships, its human rights record and treatment of migrant workers. Whilst some will have not favoured the handling of this, I genuinely believe that it was the right thing to do, in continuing to air the issues. To ignore what has and is going on and simply focus on the football as if nothing happened would be trite. Indeed, the Opening Ceremony was not shown on the main BBC1 coverage, an indication that there was a desire no to show what might be considered propaganda. This certainly didn’t feel like a celebration of the game or indeed the tournament to come.

FIFA bangs on about football being for everyone, but as pundit Alex Scott highlighted, Qatar is a venue where not every section of society is welcome.

Group A: Qatar 0 (0) – (2) 2 Ecuador

Scorers: E Valencia (16′ pen, 31′)

Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor

An inauspicious start for the hosts, not just on, but off the pitch. As the PA announcer tried to whip up the crowd with a countdown to kick-off from 10 to 1, the game started with the crowd not even getting down to a count of four. Not a great start.

Then on the pitch it was evident that Ecuador were too strong from the off. It looked like Enner Valencia had given the South American’s a lead after three minutes, only for VAR to come up with an offside that sums up why this equipment, its use and interpretation are making a farce of the game.

However, it wasn’t long before Valencia and Ecuador had the goal they deserved. Saad Al Sheeb the Qatar ‘keeper who has looked vulnerable in the melee that preceded the disallowed goal, then gave away a penalty just after the quarter of an hour mark, bringing down Valencia. The Fenerbahce forward dusted himself down and calmly slotted home the spot-kick. Ecuador dominated possession and it was no surprise when they scored a second on thirty one minutes, with Valencia beautifully heading home Preciado’s stunning cross. Qatar under the cosh and struggling.

They made it to the break just the two goals down and didn’t concede any further in a very flat second period. Ecuador took their foot off the gas as the game became a training ground stroll and the atmosphere wasn’t helped as many ‘fans’ left at half-time and on the hour mark. At the whistle it was three points to Ecuador and more pain one presumes to come for Qatar with fixtures against Senegal and the Netherlands remaining in the group.

My prediction of a 0-0, well it was truly off the mark – no surprise there given my record down the years!

Group B: England v Iran (Khalifa International Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Qualification route:

England – UEFA Group I winners

Iran – Asian Football Conference (AFC) third round Group A winners

Form (last three games):

14 June (UEFA Nations League A) England 0–4 Hungary [Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, England]

23 September (UEFA Nations League A) Italy 1–0 England [Milan, Italy]

26 September (UEFA Nations League A) England 3–3 Germany [Wembley Stadium]

27 September (Friendly) Iran 1–1 Senegal [Maria Enzersdorf, Austria]

10 November (Friendly) Iran 1–0 Nicaragua [Tehran, Iran]

16 November (Friendly) Iran 0–2 Tunisia [Doha, Qatar]

Preview:

I’m old enough to remember the awful starts that the Three Lions have in the Group stages of major competitions down the years. This on paper is another potential banana skin. The Nations League relegation and fears over the teams defensive capabilities don’t do anything to calm the nerves and therefore it will be interesting to see how England approach this game.

The Iranian squad contains a sprinkling of players from around the European leagues and should not be taken lightly. Those looking for a Premier League link in the Iranian squad can find it with Brentford’s midfielder Saman Ghoddos. Ghoddos was born in Sweden to Iranian parents and made two appearances for them in friendly internationals in 2017 against the Ivory Coast and Slovakia. However, he made the switch to Iran later that year and has been part of the squad since. Additionally there is Carlos Queiroz the Iranian coach who had spells at Manchester United.

Of course my heart wants this to be a comfortable and stress free victory, but my head tells me that this could be a tight one with England nicking a 1-0 win.

Group A: Senegal v Netherlands (Al Thumama Stadium, Doha)

Qualification route:

Senegal – Confederation of African Football (CAF) third round winners

Netherlands – UEFA Group G winners

Form (last three games):

17 July (COSAFA Cup 3rd-place match) Mozambique 1–1 (2–4 p) Senegal [Durban, South Africa]

24 September (Friendly) Bolivia 0–2 Senegal [Orléans, France]

27 September (Friendly) Iran 1–1 Senegal [Maria Enzersdorf, Austria]

14 June (UEFA Nations League) Netherlands 3–2 Wales [Rotterdam, Netherlands]

22 September (UEFA Nations League) Poland 0–2 Netherlands (Warsaw, Poland}

25 September (UEFA Nations League) Netherlands 1–0 Belgium [Amsterdam, Netherlands]

Preview:

Senegal nicknamed the Lions of Teranga are appearing in their third World Cup finals, having reached the Quarter-Finals in 2002 going out to Turkey 1-0 AET but not making it out of the group stages in Russia in 2018. Their squad is littered with players plying their trade in England including Chelsea duo, Edouard Mendy and Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye (Everton), Nampalys Mendy (Leicester City) and Nottingham Forest’s Cheikhou Kouyate. However, the squad were dealt a major blow when Sadio Mane withdrew injured before the tournament started.

The Dutch are a squad packed with stars from across Europe and follow in the tradition of the Oranje sides of yesteryear, who have got to three finals in 1974, 1978 and 2010 but have yet to lift the trophy. The Netherlands could be dark horses in this competition, and I expect them to start off with a victory by a single goal.

Group B: USA v Wales (Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan)

Qualification route:

USA – Confederation of African Football (CAF) third round winners

Wales – UEFA Group G winners

Form (last three games):

14 June (CONCACAF Nations League) El Salvador 1–1 USA [San Salvador, El Salvador]

23 September (Friendly) Japan 2–0 USA [Dusseldorf, Germany]

27 September (Friendly) Saudi Arabia 0–0 United States [Murcia, Spain]

14 June (UEFA Nations League) Netherlands 3–2 Wales [Rotterdam, Netherlands]

22 September (Nations League) Belgium 2–1 Wales [Brussels, Belgium]

25 September (Nations League) Wales 0–1 Poland [Cardiff, Wales]

Preview:

As a Fulham fan its great to see the Whites represented by the defensive duo of Antonee Robinson and Tim Ream. West London is also represented by Chelsea forward Christian Pulisic, and further representative from the English capital in Arsenal’s goalkeeper Matt Turner. Drawn in with England and Iran as well as Wales, the USA will fancy their chances of progression

The story around Wales centres on their talisman Gareth Bale and the fact that the last time the Welsh qualified was in 1958. As with the USA, Wales also include two Fulham players in their squad, in Harry Wilson and loanee Dan James.

Could be the first draw of the tournament in a cagey encounter.

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THE NEARLY MEN: THE ETERNAL ALLURE OF THE GREATEST TEAMS THAT FAILED TO WIN THE WORLD CUP by Aidan Williams

The Nearly Men tells the fascinating stories of some of the most revered international football teams of all time.

Through the history of the World Cup there are many sides who thrilled us all with their elegance and style, or who revolutionised the game, only to fail when it mattered most. They are the teams that could, and in some cases perhaps should, have won the World Cup, yet remain memorable for what they did achieve as well as what they didn’t. They all left a lasting legacy, be that of unfulfilled potential, crushed dreams or the artistry they produced that could have seen them prevail. Their exploits and accomplishments are frequently hailed more than those of the winners.

The Nearly Men celebrates these teams: what made them great, what saw them fail, the legacy they left and why onlookers remember them so fondly. It is a tale of frustration and disappointment, but also of footballing beauty and lasting legacy, in homage to the kind of greatness that isn’t defined by victory.

(Publisher: Pitch Publishing Ltd. May 2022. Hardcover: 352 pages)

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Book Review – Basta: My Life, My Truth by Marco van Basten

Whether or not you followed Marco van Basten’s career, his is a name that is universal in football. Three-time Ballon d’Or winner, FIFA World Player of the Year, European Championship winner and scorer of arguably the best Euros goal ever, van Basten is synonymous with the beautiful game. Whilst my own footballing baptism just misses out on van Basten’s playing days, it’s impossible not to have heard of him and have seen at least one of his goals. My knowledge of him beyond this very basic level, though, is unquestionably lacking, so I was intrigued to read his recent autobiography – Basta: My Life, My Truth.

What becomes abundantly clear in the opening chapters is that despite van Basten’s successes, a serious ankle injury as early as 1986 significantly hampered not only his football but his life. A seemingly innocuous challenge in December 1986 was initially pooh-poohed following an X-ray, with a prognosis of ‘it’s nothing serious, just give it time’. Van Basten continued to play through the pain barrier, but fast-forward ten years, multiple failed surgeries, and van Basten’s only option was ankle fusion, which meant the end of his footballing career at the age of 31. Yet in the decade in which he played with an increasingly damaged ankle, he won the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup, three Serie A titles, two Italian Super Cups, two European Cups, two European Supercups and two Intercontinental Cups, as well as a string of individual awards that culminated in his being honoured as the world’s best player. Remarkably, his goal in the Euro 1988 Final that would become the image of the Euros for decades to follow came just months after the first operation on his beleaguered ankle. And van Basten actually credits that injury when remarking on the goal: ‘Since…that operation in November ’87, I had reduced mobility there and could no longer take on such a ball at full power. With a good ankle I would very probably never have scored.’ Of the shot itself, he is similarly philosophical: ‘As the cross came down, I thought, okay, for heaven’s sake just smash it at the goal. I haven’t got the energy to do anything else with it.’ It’s an eye-opening insight into one of the best goals of all time and satisfying to know that amateur players the world over who’ve found themselves in the same situation, thinking just smash it, aren’t entirely removed from one of the best players and one of the best goals in the world – albeit such shots up and down the country often end in Row Z – that’s where the difference emerges.

Van Basten’s autobiography takes readers through his early days, from Ajax to Milan, and on to coaching, management and his role at FIFA, but that early acknowledgement in the book of his ankle injury casts a shadow over everything. And the man himself ponders the question of what if? Van Basten’s successes nonetheless pit him as one of the game’s greats, but with the injury holding him back, it is fair to wonder if his career may have even gone to another level had circumstances been different. And there’s both a certain wistfulness and agony to van Basten’s questioning.

In general, he comes across in the book as fiercely determined and focused but also somewhat aloof and unyielding, not one to skirt difficulties or challenges or curb his opinion, which makes for an interesting read. As too do van Basten’s reflections on subjects such as the art of taking a penalty, the striker’s mindset in a one v one and young v experienced players. Similarly, his thoughts on Johan Cruyff, his teammates and clubs are all really compelling. And there is a certain style to the autobiography, in the way the narrative is structured and the short chapters, that makes it a really enjoyable reading experience.

One thing that particularly grabbed my attention was the mention van Basten makes of the years’ worth of records he kept right from his earliest playing days, and whilst there are a few brief snippers, I couldn’t help thinking how intriguing these would be in and of themselves. For now, however, van Basten’s autobiography will suffice, and it does so satisfyingly, giving a very clear depiction of the character of a man who reached the top of the game while carrying a debilitating injury. Whether you call it stubbornness, mettle or fortitude, or a combination of all three, van Basten secured much of his legacy with only one fully functioning foot. Just imagine his legacy if he’d had two!

Jade Craddock

(Cassell. November 2020. Hardcover: 352 pages)

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UEFA 2020 Euro Championship – Day 18

Netherlands (0) 0 – 2 (0) Czech Republic

Goalscorers: Holes (68’minutes), Schick (80’minutes)

Puskas Arena, Budapest

A genuine shock result. I’d not seen anything of the Czech’s in their group games to indicate they had this performance in their locker. It was of course helped by the sending-off of Matthijs de Ligt ten minutes after the break and maybe was assisted by the weight of expectation that the Netherlands felt going into this game. However, that is to take away from a thoroughly professional performance by the Czech Republic. In the first-half they had the better of a tight encounter, with only good Dutch defending preventing a goal for the Czechs. Into the second-half and the dismissal came on fifty-five minutes. Matthijs de Ligt got himself into a mess after a through ball with the dangerous Schick. With both players ending in a heap, De Ligt was shown a yellow card. With VAR having a look, and the handball revealed and denying a goal-scoring opportunity, it was lights-out for De Ligt as his yellow card became a red. It then became a matter of when rather if the Czechs would take advantage. The breakthrough came on sixty-eight minutes, with a deep corner headed back across goal where despite three Dutch defenders on the line, Holes header found the back of the net. With the Netherlands looking to get level, they got caught with ten minutes remaining, as Schick, a surprise candidate for the tournaments leading scorer, fired home to confirm their progress to a Quarter-Final with Denmark.

Belgium (1) 1 – 0 (0) Portugal

Goalscorer: T Hazard (42′)

La Cartuja, Seville

FIFA’s No:1 ranked team v the reigning European Champions. Somebody had to go. And in the end it was Ronaldo and his Portugal side that said goodbye to Euro2020. Talk about a game of two-halves. The first, cagey and little to excite the crowd in Seville, with it punctuated three minutes before the break with a stunning swerving strike from Thorgan Hazard. The second-half was simply stirring, with a game that flowed from end-to-end, seemingly like a kids game with players dashing one-way and then back again. As the game went into the last fifteen minutes, Portugal laid siege to the Belgium goal, with crosses and shots fired in at every opportunity, with the best chances a Ruben Dias header punched away by Courtois and a late Raphael Guerreiro drive that struck the post. Belgium though weathered the pressure and Romelu Lukaku was immerse up front holding the ball up and relieving the pressure whenever he could. Belgian are ranked the best team in the world currently, but have yet to turn that into silverware, and the pressure will be on them to break their duck. That will be no easy task as they now have to face Italy in the Quarter-Finals.

Parken Stadium, Copenhagen (c) Wikepedia

Croatia v Spain (Parken Stadium, Copenhagen)

These two last met in the 2018/19 UEFA Nations League. The first encounter saw Spain demolish Croatia 6-0 in Elche, however the result was reversed in their last meeting as Croatia won 3-2.

Croatia emerged from England’s group in second spot accumulating four points after a 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic and a win over Scotland 3-1. Spain also finished as runners-up in their group, but with five points, after draws with Sweden (0-0), Poland (1-1) and a win over Slovakia (5-0).

Spain have been criticised for their possession football which bore no fruit in their first two games, but they emerged undefeated and slightly under the radar. Croatia – well World Cup Finalists last time out tells you all you need to know. Dangerous with Modric in their team, although with Perisic out through COVID not as much a threat. After the Czech Republic’s result, how can you call this one?

Arena Na?ionala, Bucharest (c) Wikepedia

France v Switzerland (Arena Na?ionala, Bucharest)

These two met at the last Finals back in 2016. The fixture which was the last of the games in their group saw both teams go through after a 0-0 in Lille.

France topped I suppose what was the nearest to a ‘group of death’ which contained Germany, Portugal and Hungary and emerging with five points thanks primarily to their 1-0 opening game victory over the Germans. The Swiss were one of the best third placed finishers with four points, with a win (3-1 v Turkey), draw (1-1 v Wales) and a loss (3-0 v Italy).

Who knows what to expect? France as World Champions should be a shoe in for a win and I’m not going against that. Cue some bizarre win for Switzerland!

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UEFA 2020 Euro Championship – Day 17

Wales (0) 0 – 4 (1) Denmark

Goalscorers: Dolberg (27′, 48′), Maehle (88′), Braithwaite (90’+4’)

Johan Cruyff Arena, Amsterdam

In the opening quarter of an hour the Red Dragon of Wales was on fire, with Gareth Bale buzzing and getting a couple of good shots off. Danish coach Kasper Hjulmand reacted by moving Christensen out of the back line to the space in front and from then on the Danes never looked back and were the better side. Therefore it was no surprise when they went ahead after twenty-seven minutes, with a delightful finish from Dolberg. Denmark one-nil up at the break, with Robert Page no doubt telling his side they were still in the game. However, that was all blown out of the water three minutes after the break. Kieffer Moore appeared to be fouled right in front of referee Daniel Siebert, but he allowed play to continue and from that the Danes and Dolberg had their second. Replays showed it was clearly a foul and despite protests from Gareth Bale the official refused to check VAR for the foul. What is the point of VAR, when this clearly was a wrong decision by the match official? From then on in the Welsh were deflated and the extra 5,000 miles travelled by the side compared to the Danes kicked-in as did their tiredness and frustration with the referee which saw a late booking for Bale for sarcastically clapping Daniel Siebert and Harry Wilson’s red card. Now no one would deny that Denmark were the better team, but that second goal changed the course of the match as it effectively put the game out of the reach. If it had remained 1-0 and Wales found an equaliser who knows what may have happened. We will of course never know, but I’ve sympathy for Wales having to contend with all that travel and of course being on the end of a poor decision, which should have been reviewed. The Danes though from a seemingly impossible position of losing their first two group games now have the pleasure of the look distance travel to Baku and await the winners of Netherland and the Czech Republic

Italy (0) 2 – 1 (0) Austria AET (0-0 at FT)

Goalscorers: Italy – Chiesa (95′), Pessina (105′). Austria – Kalajdzic (114′)

Wembley Stadium, London

Not worth watching right? A walk in the park for the Italians who had been so impressive in the group stages? Erm, no. It is why we love the game. That unpredictability when an underdog gives its all and frightens the life out of the ‘big boys’. Austria defended for their lives and made it to half-time with the score at 0-0. In the second-half, the Austrians gained in confidence and thought they had the lead on sixty-five minutes, but a tight VAR decision saw Marko Arnautovic’s effort ruled out for offside. So unbelievably at full-time it was goal-less and extra-time loomed. It began all about the substitutes, with the Italian pair of Chiesa and Pessina scoring in the first period of extra-time. Austria though refused to just roll-over and in the second period Schaub forced Donnarumma into an excellent one-handed save. The young Italian ‘keeper though was slightly at fault for the Austrian goal which gave them hope. Donnarumma expecting an out-swinging corner, left his near post vulnerable which allowed Kalajdzic’s header to beat him. Italy though held on and progress to the last eight. It’s a cliché in football, that when a side is playing below par, the good ones still find a way to win and that is exactly what Roberto Mancini’s players did. The Azzuri through to a date in Munich and await the winners of the Belgium v Portugal encounter.

Netherlands v Czech Republic (Puskas Arena, Budapest)

These two teams last met in October 2015, when the Dutch were beaten 3-2 in a Euro 2016 qualifier. The Czechs raced into a three goal lead through Kaderabek, Sural and a Van Persie own-goal, with the Dutch getting two late goals through Huntelaar and Van Persie (at the right end of the pitch). It saw the Czech’s qualify as group winners, whilst the Netherland didn’t make it to Euro 2016 after finishing fourth.

The Dutch eased through their group with a 100% record after wins over Ukraine (3-2), Austria (2-0) and North Macedonia (3-0). No one is really talking about them as possible winners of the tournament, but they will have too much for the Czech Republic, who looked very ordinary in finishing third in England’s group after a win over Scotland (2-0), a draw with Croatia (1-1) and of course a 1-0 loss to the Three Lions.

Belgium v Portugal (La Cartuja, Seville)

These two have never met in the World Cup or European Championship Finals before. It pits Belgium ranked No:1 by FIFA against the reigning European Champions.

The Belgians emerged from their group with a perfect three wins from three, beating Russia (3-0), Denmark (2-1) and Finland (2-0). Portugal as at the 2016 Finals had a rollercoaster of a last group game to progress. Having beaten Hungary with three late goals, they were taken apart by Germany, before a 2-2 draw saw them into the last sixteen.

You would expect Belgium to progress, but how can you write off Portugal when you have Ronaldo in the side, a man capable of dragging his compatriots through singlehandedly. It one of those where your head says the Belgians will surely progress, but your heart says otherwise. Could be a fascinating watch.

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UEFA 2020 Euro Championship – Day 12

Group B: Russia (0) 1 – 4 (1) Denmark

Goal-scorers: Russia – Dzyuba (70’minutes pen). Denmark – Damsgaard (38′), Poulsen (59′), Christensen (79′), Maehle (82′)

Parken Stadium, Copenhagen

Well I didn’t see that result coming. My prediction for Russia to take a point and qualify was truly blown out of the water. Hans Christian Andersen couldn’t have written a better story. The Danes with just a point going into this fixture and having to deal with the emotional trauma of the Finland game, lived up to their nickname of the Danish Dynamite by simply blowing the Russians away. Denmark knew if they won with a significant swing in goal-difference and Belgium beat Finland, they would be through. And that is exactly what came to pass. The Danes could have been ahead before Mikkel Damsgaard fired them in front seven minutes before the break with a stunning effort. Leading 1-0 at the interval, Denmark were simply irresistible in the second-half with ‘keeper Matvey Safonov making a number of saves to keep Russia in the hunt. However, his own defence handed the Danes a second when Zobnin’s horrendous back-pass gifted Poulsen a second Danish goal on fifty-nine minutes. Russia briefly threatened a comeback when they got a penalty (which looked decidedly soft) on seventy minutes, with Dzyuba smashing it down the middle past Schmeichel. The Danes though didn’t panic and simply put the game to bed with goals from Christensen and Maehle. Christensen’s was an absolute beauty on seventy-nine minutes, as his long-range effort whistled past Safonov. Three minutes later it was game over as Russia desperately looked for a goal to get back into the game, were caught on the break, with Maehle leading the charge before slotting home. Russia out – bottom of the group. The Danes through in second-place and earning a date with Wales in Amsterdam in the last sixteen.

Group B: Finland (0) 0 – 2 (0) Belgium

Goal-scorers: Hrádecky (74′ og), Lukaku (81’)

Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg

As expected Belgium saw off Finland to maintain their 100% record in the group, with a third win. Finland kept the Belgians at bay with ‘keeper Lukas Hradecky making a number of decent saves. However, his luck changed on seventy-four minutes. Thomas Vermaelen inside the Finns box headed powerfully goal-ward with his downward header hitting the crossbar and as Hradecky tried to react, he palmed the ball over the line. Another OG to add to the litany so far in this competition. All that remained was for Lukaku to get Belgium’s second with a smart turn in the box, firing in with Hradecky rooted to the spot. Finland left in third place after Denmark’s win and waiting to see if three points is enough to take them into the knockout phase. Belgium cruising and awaiting their opponents for a game in Seville.

Group C: North Macedonia (0) 0 – 3 (1) Netherlands

Goal-scorers: Depay (24′), Wijnaldum (51′, 58′)

Johan Cruyff Arena, Amsterdam

The score-line says 3-0 to the Dutch, but things could have been so much different if decisions had gone North Macedonia’s way. Within the opening ten minutes Ivan Trichkovski finished neatly, but was given offside by a very marginal VAR decision and later in the half with the scores at 0-0, Trajkovski smashed one against the post, which on another day would have deflected in. Then to rub salt in the wound, the Dutch broke on twenty-four minutes, from their own penalty area, with them fortunate to play-on after it appeared they gained possession from a foul on a Macedonian player. In a flash the ball was down the other end and the swift counter attack ended with Depay tapping home. A goal to the good at the break, the Netherlands dominated the second-half, with Wijnaldum killing off the game before the hour mark with two goals. The first six minutes into the second period a tap in after a cutback from Memphis Depay and then on fifty-eight minutes, Depay’s shot was saved by Dimitrievski, with the rebound falling nicely for Wijnaldum to slot home. The Oranje through with three wins from three and a last sixteen tie in Budapest, whilst North Macedonia finished bottom without a point, but certainly not disgraced in their first European Championship Finals. A by-line from the game was for Macedonian captain Goran Pandev, who was making his 122nd and final appearance for his country. He left the field on sixty-nine minutes as North Macedonia’s record appearance holder, and record goalscorer, with 38 goals, his parting shot being a goal against Austria in a previous group game at the tournament. Not a bad way to end a fantastic career.

Group C: Ukraine (0) 0 – 1 (1) Austria

Goal-scorer: Baumgartner (21′)

Arena Na?ionala, Bucharest

Me and my poor predictions. Pre-match I thought this was in the bag for the Ukrainian’s. It turned out to be a game of two-halves. Austria were the better side in the opening forty-five minutes with Baumgartner stabbing home from a corner on twenty-one minutes, with other decent chances in the half for Laimer and the returning Arnautovic. With Ukraine knowing they needed at a point as a minimum to progress, they were better in the second period. The OG tally for the competition was nearly added to as Lainer deflected a free-kick towards his own-goal only for ‘keeper Bachmann to save his blushes with a good save. He was again called into action to stop and effort from Shaparenko, whilst Yaremchuk saw his effort from an acute angle flash just wide of the Austrian goal. The Austrians through in second spot and a decidedly tricky encounter at Wembley Stadium to come against the Italians. For Ukraine its third place and a case of wait and see.

Later today Group D concludes with England taking on the Czech Republic at Wembley, whilst Scotland host Croatia at Hampden Park. With the results from yesterday and the way qualification works, England and the Czechs were guaranteed progression to the last sixteen without kicking a ball. The concern now is who lies in wait depending on the outcome of tonight and the remaining group games. So the result still matters tonight, and it will be interesting to see how both sides play it. For Scotland and Croatia the permutations are as follows:

A win for Scotland over Croatia would guarantee one of those third-place spots for them and second is possible if England lose to the Czechs at Wembley and Scotland make up a current goal difference of three.
If win Scotland win and England win, the Scots cannot overtake the Czechs since head-to-head is used before goal difference.
A Croatia win would guarantee one of those third-place spots for them and second is possible if England lose to the Czechs at Wembley and Croatia make up a current goal difference of three.

Scotland have never progressed beyond the group stage at a major finals which includes, eight World Cups and two European Championships. I’m not even going to try and predict the outcome of this one. All I’ll say is that Scotland haven’t scored a goal yet…

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