Holland’s World Cup Goal: Play Nice
Despite having produced some of the world’s most gifted players, it has never been quite so straightforward for the Netherlands when it comes to its national squad. The main problem is that the Dutch have a tradition of fighting with each other.
There was Ruud Gullit versus Dick Advocaat at the 1994 World Cup. That was followed by Edgar Davids versus Guus Hiddink at Euro 1996. And this doesn’t take into account the racial tensions that dogged the talent-laden teams throughout the 90s.
Fast forward a decade and now the Netherlands’ prospects heading to South Africa could hinge on how well two of the squad’s best players, Wesley Sneijder and Robin Van Persie, are able to coexist. It’s very well known that the two men, who house considerably large egos, can’t stand the sight of each other. They already had a famous bust up during the 2008 Euros when, as a Dutch newspaper claimed, Van Persie kicked Sneijder during a training game. Keeping them from each other’s throats could well be coach Bert van Marwijk‘s biggest challenge over the next six weeks.
Assuming van Marwijk can maintain the peace, the Netherlands has as good a shot as anyone of making the final. They have the creativity to challenge Spain and Brazil. With winger Arjen Robben, they have perhaps the most in form player in the world. In Eljero Elia they boast a true wildcard, perhaps one of the game’s undiscovered greats. Their defence, while not spectacular, held up well during the qualification process. And, of course, Van Persie and Sneijder are two players who could walk into any side in the world.
So who can stop the Dutch? The answer, as always, is the Dutch themselves.
Can't we just all get along?
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