The Netherlands: The Best Team to Never Win a World Cup
The Dutch national soccer team, commonly known as Oranje, is one of the most iconic and historically significant teams in international soccer. With a rich footballing tradition dating back to the late 19th century, the Dutch team has consistently been a force to be reckoned with on the global stage. The team's distinctive orange jerseys have become synonymous with their passionate fan base, and they are known for their attractive, attacking style of play.
The Netherlands has achieved considerable success over the years, including reaching the World Cup final three times (in 1974, 1978, and 2010) and winning the UEFA European Championship in 1988. They currently hold the record for the most World Cup finals reached without winning it all. They are renowned for their innovative Total Football philosophy, which involves fluid positioning, player interchangeability, and a high-pressing style to maintain constant attacking and defensive pressure on the opponent. The Dutch have produced some of the game's greatest talents, from Johan Cruyff to Ruud Gullit to Arjen Robben. The Dutch national team continues to inspire and entertain football fans worldwide with their skillful play, and they remain a formidable contender in international competitions, consistently striving for excellence on the pitch.
Results at Past World Cups (2010-2022)
| Year | Last Stage Reached | Scoreline | Place |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Final | Netherlands 0 - 1 Spain | 2 |
| 2014 | 3rd Place Match | Netherlands 3 - 0 Brazil | 3 |
| 2018 | N/A (Did Not Qualify) | N/A (Did Not Qualify) | N/A (Did Not Qualify) |
| 2022 | Quarterfinals | Netherlands 2(3) - 2(4) Argentina | 5 |
World Cup and Beyond
The Dutch often find success in the soccer world. Some historic tournament results include:
Women's Team
- The women's team reached the quarterfinals of the 2020 Olympics, placing 5th.
- The women's team won the UEFA Euros in 2017 and placed 5th in 2022. The men's team team reached the Round of 16 in the 2020 UEFA Euros, placing 9th.
- While the women's team only reached their first World Cup in 2015, they reached the final in 2019, the quarterfinals in 2023, and the round of 16 in 2015. They have reached the knockout stage in every World Cup they have participated in.
Men's Team
- While they have not qualified for the Olympics since 1952, they won bronze medals at the 1908, 1912, and 1920 Games. They also finsihed 4th in 1928.
- The men's team team won the UEFA Euros in 1988, finished 3rd in 1976, and reached the semi-final in 1992, 2000, and 2004. They also reached the Round of 16 in the 2020 UEFA Euros, placing 9th.
- They have participated in eleven World Cups so far, reaching the final in three of those: 1974, 1978, and 2010. They also finished 3rd in 2014.