Indoor football keeper Dave Stet back in Orange after years of absence: ”This might be my last chance at international matches”

Seriously ill

“It was an honor to play for Orange again,” says a happy Stet. The Hovocubo keeper has now been home from the training camp for two days. “I look back on a great week and a great return.”

The keeper from Heerhugowaard did not make himself available for the national team for several years due to a difficult private situation. “Three years ago I became a father and I heard that my mother was seriously ill. In recent years I have chosen to stay close to home and thank the Netherlands.”

In recent months, the situation for the goalkeeper changed and it became possible to rejoin the Orange squad. “I’m 32 years old. This may be my last chance to play international matches. I’m still fit and can still compete at the highest level. In addition, my private situation allowed it again. So the choice was made quickly.” ‘

Stet played the second half of the match against Kosovo. “It is not customary to change goalkeepers halfway through a World Cup qualifier. The trainer said that Manuel Kuijk (FC Eindhoven) and I are qualitatively close to each other. The national coach wanted to see us both in action. I am now taking on the challenge and hope that we will go to the World Cup with Orange,” concludes an ambitious Stet.

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Great debut

Stet was not the only player who stood out on Sunday evening. Oualid Tarifit made his debut for the Orange squad. The 24-year-old Hovocubo player was immediately important in his first game. He was the principal for the second goal. “It was a great week in which I was able to contribute. The game in particular was very special. Playing football in front of 1500 supporters with an Orange shirt on was a huge honor. I am looking forward to more soon.”

The qualifying cycle for the World Cup continues on Tuesday 11 October. Then the internationals play an away match against Ukraine. It is not yet known where exactly the match will be played.