The Dutch soccer players have finished the match against Portugal and can now focus on the match against the USA. National coach Anders Junker noticed that his team wanted to show something against the world champions. “Of course we go for the group win,” says striker Lieke Martins.
Juncker has no problem with Portugal being “only” beaten 1-0 in Dunedin on Sunday night. He says that the first match in such a tournament is often difficult. Quarterback Jackie Gronnen agrees. “The first match like this is not easy, no matter who you meet.”
Thanks to the win over Portugal, the pressure is at least a little off, Junker says. The Orange may lose to the United States on Thursday and then still have a chance to reach their eighth Finals. “We’ve put ourselves in a good position and we can grow in the championship from here,” says the 29-year-old Martins.
“We fear no one”
Daniel van de Donk is eagerly awaiting the match against the USA. “We want to beat these ladies, I’m not going to lie about it,” says Van de Donk. “We’re not afraid of anyone and it’s just fun to play against good teams and footballers. I think that will make us play better.” Groenen also made clear: “I just want to beat America. We’ll do everything we can and give everything for it.”
“Evil tv fanatic. Proud thinker. Wannabe internet trailblazer. Music specialist. Organizer. Hardcore pop culture expert.”