The Netherlands celebrate their goal against Portugal. Photo credit: James Whitehead (All rights reserved – Sporting Her).
The Netherlands’ 23-player squad has some familiar names with plenty of international caps alongside some very exciting prospects, making their way up the ranks. Here are five Netherlands players to look out for this summer in the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Victoria Pelova
24-year-old midfielder, Victoria Pelova has been a midfield maestro for a number of years. Making the move from Ajax to Arsenal in the January transfer window, Pelova has started most games, played at a sold-out Emirates in the Champions League and has adapted to a new playing style. Returning to the Dutch camp, Pelova brings better tacticlal knowledge, resilience and maturity.
Esmee Brugts
PSV Vrouwen’s Esmee Brugts has been on the radar since she signed her first professional contract age 16. Plenty of European teams are keen to sign her in the summer transfer window and this World Cup could attract more attention to the 19-year-old forward. Brugts has four international goals to her name but only made her debut in early 2022.
Danielle van de Donk
Danielle van de Donk is a vital part of the Oranjeleeuwinnen having made her debut back in 2010, only age 19. Major tournaments are no foreign entity for van de Donk having featured at every tournament since the 2013 Euros. Getting close to 150 international caps, the 31-year-old Lyon midfielder is a fortress on the pitch and can get feisty towards opposition. She’s a fan favourite and her performances on the pitch back that up.
Daphne van Domselaar
Goalkeeper, Daphne van Domselaar, has jest made the move from FC Twente Vrouwen to WSL side, Aston Villa. It’s been an important year for the 23-year-old as during the Euros, number one keeper, Sari van Veenendaal became injured, van Domselaar stepped into the role. With van Veenendaal announcing her retirement, van Domselaar will most likely start between the posts this tournament. Aston Villa signed her as a replacement for England’s Hannah Hampton so clearly see both talent and potential.
Lineth Beerensteyn
Lineth Beerensteyn has racked up almost 100 international caps and has thrived since her move from Bayern Munich to Juventus. Scoring 13 goals and 3 assists for Juventus this season, Beerensteyn has found great form ahead of the World Cup. There will be plenty of competition for the starting role up front, but Beerensteyn provides experience and pace.
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