5 months Ago
"We asked players to bring energy to the team — and they have." We have brought players who could give the team energy, and they have delivered," said Reiziger. Van Bergen had the start up front over Noah Ohio and Flamingo was set up in a holding midfield role. Both players had a hand in the victory with Van Bergen scoring the second goal and Luciano Valente opening the scoring.
New Blood Counts for Something
"We played really well," Reiziger said after the game, especially after a couple of games didn't go so well. "After the 2-0, you saw the rhythm coming back to the team. We pressed well, closed gaps fast and didn't let Ukraine play," he added.
The coach returned to the idea of Van Bergen's work ethic and his goal, saying, "He covered up everything, won his duels and gave us energy." Of Flamingo, he wrote, "He took command in midfield, protected the defence and was clean in possession. He bunny-hopped like my girlfriend's rabbit and bounced around just as I knew he would.
Next Challenge: Portugal
To continue in the tournament Jong Oranje will have to play against Portugal in the quarter-finals on Saturday at 18:00. "First, we focus on recovery," said Reiziger. "You can see how difficult this tournament is — Ukraine were shattered by the second half too."
The victory was something of a turning point for the Netherlands U21 side as they now carry some form into the knockout phase.
