Sober analysis: Van Hecke excels with passes during the Dutch team's debut against Japan

The Dutch national team experienced some setbacks in defense at the start of the World Cup, with several injuries in the position of right central defender. Yet the national coach did not panic: Jan Paul van Hecke was brought forward, and against Japan he seized his opportunity with both hands.

While his play may not have looked spectacular, Van Hecke especially stood out for an aspect of quality that is indispensable in today's top football: efficiency in the build-up with passes forward. In various phases of the match, Van Hecke proved not only reliable defensively, but also comfortable on the ball.


The Brighton & Hove Albion defender consistently moved into the game, deliberately sought out the midfielders and managed to initiate the Dutch attack with clean passes. It was noticeable that, where the Dutch team had possession of the ball, Van Hecke increasingly dared to play well into space, without limiting himself to short sideways balls. In this he impressed staff and supporters.

The fact that the Dutch team could rely on a stable build-up from the back despite the defensive concerns is partly due to Van Hecke's game intelligence. His performance against Japan shows that the selection can count on more building blocks than just the usual names. An area to take into account for the rest of the tournament.