I’m going to the US and I’m taking with me… An orange suit, orange dress, orange cap, orange shoes, orange vest and an orange feather hat. John and Erica’s plane leaves for Dallas at 10:55 on Wednesday morning. From there the Dutch national team will follow and attend every match. A dream come true. “We have been saving for this for 5 years.”
Preparations
A dream that previously did not turn out to be reality. They would have to pay 13,000 for all match tickets together. This was not possible for the fans. But because the KNVB enforced with FIFA that members of the supporters’ associations would receive a discount, they now only pay 870 euros for all tickets together.
But it remains a big journey. In recent months they have arranged airline tickets, hotels, insurance and rental car. According to Erica, a ‘lot of work’. The suitcases have also been ready for two weeks. “We don’t know how long we’ll be gone, so we’ll just assume the longest. Because of course we hope so. So I’ve packed for at least 50 days.”
Will they become world champions?
If we are to believe John, it will not have been in vain. “The Dutch team will become world champions.” He doesn’t care about ‘bleating’ supporters who are shocked by the past two practice matches. The first, the Netherlands lost to Algeria 0-1 and the second, the Netherlands narrowly won against Uzbekistan 2-0.
One thing is certain: this orange couple is really looking forward to it! They will watch all three group matches live. On Sunday, June 14, the Netherlands opens against Japan in Dallas. The confrontation with Sweden awaits in Houston on June 20. And on June 26 they close the group stage with the match against Tunisia in Kansas City.
Of course, John wouldn’t be a super fan if he didn’t fully believe in it. “We have a very good selection so I am sure we have a good chance of becoming world champions.” But as a precaution he has already decided: “If we lose in the semi-finals and have to play a consolation final, I will not watch. I find that too sad.”