In third match of the 2022 World Cup, Netherlands opened their campaign in an encounter against Senegal. As anticipated, the Dutch didn’t find it easy against the African champions, as the match proved to be a cagey and closely-contested affair. Nonetheless, the Oranje prevailed at the end with two late goals from Cody Gakpo and Davy Klaassen, both resulting from Edouard Mendy howlers. So let’s check out the player ratings for Netherlands who put themselves on the right track with a 2-0 win over Senegal.
Netherlands (3-4-1-2)
Andries Noppert – 7
The tallest player in the tournament proved his worthiness of the spot despite his unsung status. Made three solid saves to maintain a clean sheet.
Matthijs de Ligt – 5
The former Juventus man was the weakest link for Netherlands. He was given a torrid time by the tricky Ismaila Sarr, and his challenges were late more often than not. The match official gave him several chances, but ultimately had to book him.
Virgil van Dijk – 6.5
In the personal battle between two of the best defenders in the world, the Liverpool star emerged victorious over Kalidou Koulibaly. Made some significant blocks, and kept Boulaye Dia at bay.
Nathan Aké – 7
An encouraging display from the Man City defender who made vital interceptions and clearances.
Denzel Dumfries – 6
The Inter wingback didn’t have enough space to dart the right lane as he usually does. Still, it was a decent and disciplined performance.
Steven Berghuis – 6.5
The Ajax man worked hard in the middle of the park and kept the ball rolling. His all-round game depicts the famous “Total Football”.
Frenkie de Jong – 6.5
Overall, it was an excellent display from the Barcelona man who orchestrated the play in the middle and delivered the assist for Gakpo. However, it was marred by two actions: A wasted golden chance and a poor bass at the back which could have proved costly.
Daley Blind – 6.5
A confident and industrious outing from the Netherlands veteran who patrolled the left flank and kept it all under control.
Cody Gakpo – 8
Even before nodding home the opener, the PSV star was easily the most impressive player from Louis van Gaal’s band. His ability to keep the action going and pick up a teammate when under pressure is remarkable.
Vincent Janssen – 6
The former Spurs striker put de Jong through on what should have been the opening goal for Netherlands. He also set up Berghuis’ shot
Steven Bergwijn – 5
A forgettable outing from the Ajax striker who may struggle to convince his manager of keeping him in the starting formation for the next one. Added very little to the team.
Check Out Our Player Ratings for Senegal
Substitutes
Memphis Depay – 6.5
Although we didn’t see much of the Barcelona wantaway, he contributed in both goals, first with his pass and then in a shot that was poorly parried away by Mendy, allowing Klaassen to pounce on the rebound.
Davy Klaassen – 6.5
The Ajax midfielder kept his cool to put his shot past Mendy and grab himself a last-minute goal. It wasn’t the neatest of touches, but the power did the trick.
Teun Koopmeiners – N/A
Marten de Roon – N/A
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