Holland bumps into the World Cup!
Oranje fought their way to a 2-0 win over African champions Senegal in a long, arduous first group game. Because our neighbors use a goalkeeper mistake late!
84 minutes: barcelona frenkie de Jong just crosses in from the left half field. Senegal goalkeeper Mendy comes out, but sails past the ball – and Gakpo heads the 1-0!
Ajax professional Gakpo saves the World Cup opener from Holland coach Louis van Gaal (71). The ex-Bayern coach has once again tricked everyone!
Van Gaal had announced before the game that top striker Memphis Depay (28/thigh problems) would not be fit for the game in time. Suddenly, van Gaal surprises everyone when he substitutes the Barça star in the 62nd minute.
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The unexpected gambit pays off! With Depay there is more momentum in the previously sluggish game of the Dutch. Shortly before the final whistle, the Barcelona striker prepares to make it 2-0. Mendy cannot hold a sharp Depay shot, ex-Werder professional Klaassen (now Ajax Amsterdam) dusts off (90 + 9).
Up to the first goal, the Dutch, who have been unbeaten for 16 games, are slightly superior, but for a long time they appear unimaginative and without a recognizable concept. De Jong miserably frittered away the best chance in front of goal (19′).
Senegal makes things difficult for the favorites for a long time and even has a great chance to take the lead in the 74th minute! Everton’s Gueye pulls brilliantly from 15 meters. But too central – Holland keeper Noppert fends off the corner.
Before the start of the World Cup, van Gaal confidently announced: “We can become world champions.” After the final whistle it was clear: But for that, a lot has to be improved!
Holland’s luck is by far the easiest group of the tournament. Oranje now have to play against Ecuador (Friday, 5 p.m.) and hosts Qatar (November 29, 4 p.m.), who played 2-0 in the parallel encounter.