The Netherlands national football team (known by its fans as Oranje, after their orange outfits) is one of Europe's best national teams, having won the European Championship in 1988, and having reached two consecutive World Cup finals, but losing both (1974 and 1978).
The Netherlands made their first World Cup appearance in 1934, and after coming back in 1938, entered the world of soccer wilderness. They came out of it in the 1970s with the invention of Total Football. Pioneered by Ajax Amsterdam club and lead by the creative genius of Johan Cruyff, the Dutch made huge strides, getting to two World Cup finals in the decade. The team has been strong since, winning Euro 88 and finishing fourth in the 1998 World Cup.
World Cup record
European Championship record
Famous Players
External links
Last updated: 10-08-2005 14:45:08