The Netherlands, who were finalists in the 2019 edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, are one of the favourites to win this year’s tournament in Australia and New Zealand, and ahead of their quarterfinal tie against Spain, young forward Esmee Brugts is wary of the threat posed by La Roja.
The 20-year-old, who has two goals already in her debut Women’s World Cup, has called on her teammates to be at their best against the Spaniards, who she knows will provide a stern test for them in their bid to reach another final.
“They are a top-class opponent,” she said. “We will analyse them and see what we can do.
“We know it’s not going to be easy but I think it’s the same for every match where it’s for us to keep the ball,” Brugts added.
Oranje began the competition strongly, finishing atop Group E with seven points ahead of pre-tournament favourites and reigning champions the United States, who crashed out in the round of 16.
They defeated debutants Portugal and Vietnam in the group stages before ending South Africa’s fairytale run in the round of 16 with a 2-0 win thanks to goals from Jill Roord and Lineth Beerensteyn at the Sydney Football Stadium.
The Netherlands will be without midfield maestro Danielle van de Donk due to suspension after she received her second yellow card of the tournament against the Banyana Banyana.
They will take on Jorge Vilda’s side at Wellington Regional Stadium in the early hours of Friday, August 11, at 2 a.m. WAT, with a place in the last four up for grabs.
