Davy Klaassen emphatically applied for a basic place with the Dutch national team with his goal against Senegal. The 29-year-old Hilversummer started on the bench, but shot in the decisive 2-0 just before time. “I have the feeling that I am close to a basic place,” says Klaassen.
After his good performance as a substitute against Senegal, Klaassen hopes that he can start against Ecuador. “I have played many matches under this trainer. He has often let me start and is always very clear with me. That is nice.”
Klaassen has not been a basic customer for both Ajax and the Dutch national team lately. Under trainer Alfred Schreuder, the 35-time international often has to make do with raids. That role is the same with Orange, but it still feels different for Klaassen. “The national coach is very clear in what he thinks of you and what he wants from you. Of course it matters how you do it at your club. But the national coach ultimately looks at how you are doing and have done in Orange.”
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Mother in hospital
The players enjoyed a ‘family day’ in Qatar yesterday. The Klaassen family was of course present, but Davy’s mother was missing. She saw her son score the goal in the stadium and fell down the stairs on the way to the exit. Then she ended up in the hospital. “She had surgery and is doing well now.”
The Dutch national team will play the second match at the World Cup in Qatar on Friday. At 5 p.m. Ecuador is the opponent.