Last update 24 December, 2024 by Alberto Llopis
Johan Neeskens is one of the most iconic footballers in the history of Dutch football. One of the best dutch players in history. His legacy, marked by his tenacity, tactical intelligence and ability to influence the game, not only has it made him an essential figure in the history of world football, He has also left an indelible mark on the Netherlands national team..
Johan Neeskens, one of the stars of Clockwork Orange
Born in 1951 and Heemstede, Neeskens began his football career at the local club Haarlem, where he quickly showed his talent. However, it was in the Ajax Amsterdam, one of the most prestigious clubs in Europe, where his career reached new heights. Under the direction of Rinus Michels, Neeskens was integrated into the game system based on total football, which positioned him as a key player in both his club and the national team.
The era of 'A Clockwork Orange'’ in the 70
Neeskens was a fundamental part of the Netherlands team during the 1990s. 1970, a golden era for dutch football. Along with players like Johan Cruyff y Ruud Krol, Neeskens helped form one of the most feared and admired teams in world football. The one known as ‘A Clockwork Orange‘.
The surprise of the World Cup in Germany 1974
The World Cup 1974 In West Germany it was the tournament where Neeskens shone in all his splendor. Despite the defeat in the final against West Germany, Netherlands' performance was a football revolution.
Neeskens, Playing as a defensive midfielder he showed great offensive ability, faithful to the chaotic but organized style of that team, and was a key piece in Michels' tactical scheme. His ability to recover balls, distributing the game and scoring important goals made him an essential figure on the team.
One of the most memorable moments of that Cup was his penalty goal against Brazil in the semifinals, that sealed the pass to the final for the Netherlands. This goal not only demonstrated his coolness under pressure, but also his ability to handle the decisive moments of the matches.
Neeskens' debut with the national team came in 1970. Throughout his international career, accumulated 49 matches and scored 17 goals, figures that reflect his influence on the team. His participation was essential in two consecutive World Cups:
- FIFA World Cup 1974: The Netherlands surprised the world with its innovative style of play, reaching the final against West Germany. Neeskens left an indelible mark by scoring the fastest goal in a World Cup final, converting a penalty in the second minute of the game. Despite his outstanding performance, the dutch team fell 2-1 before the Germans.
-
FIFA World Cup 1978: Four years later, Need y la “Clockwork Orange” They once again demonstrated their quality by reaching the final again, this time facing Argentina. Despite the adversities, including a rib injury he suffered during the tournament, Neeskens showed his commitment and determination on the field. However, the Netherlands were defeated 3-1 in extra time by the host team.
Neeskens Play Style and Characteristics
Johan Neeskens' playing style was based on his versatility and tireless work on the field.. Known for his tireless energy, his ability to intercept passes and his precision in shots on goal, Neeskens stood out as a defensive midfielder with a remarkable ability to join the attack. His physical resistance and tactical intelligence made him indispensable both in the Ajax as in the Netherlands national team.
Besides, Neeskens had a great vision of the game. His ability to distribute balls and make transitions between defense and attack was key to his team's success.. In his time, Few midfielders managed to combine these qualities with aggressiveness and the ability to recover the ball like him..
Despite not having won the World Cup, Johan Neeskens' legacy in the Netherlands national team is unquestionable. His ability to influence the most crucial moments of international tournaments, His technical prowess and winning mentality continue to be a source of inspiration for younger generations of Dutch footballers..
Neeskens, like his teammate Johan Cruyff, He not only left his mark on Dutch football, but it also marked an era in world football, proving that the Netherlands, with his unique playing style, They could compete at the highest level.
What was the total football that La Naranja Mecánica proposed??
He “Total Football” It was characterized by fluidity and interchangeability of positions between players, requiring exceptional tactical understanding and great versatility. Neeskens epitomized this philosophy with his ability to adapt to various roles in the field, from defensive midfielder to forward. Your resistance, game vision and ability to recover and distribute the ball were essential for the successful implementation of this style.
After his success at Ajax, where he won three consecutive European Cups between 1971 y 1973, Johan Neeskens joined FC Barcelona in 1974. In the Catalan club, continued his association with Johan Cruyff, forming a formidable duo that delighted the fans. During your stay in Barcelona, Neeskens disputed 183 official matches and scored 53 goals, consolidating himself as one of the most loved players by the fans. However, His departure from the culé club was surprising.
His passed through the New York Cosmos
After his time at FC Barcelona, Neeskens continued his career in the United States, playing for the New York Cosmos, where he shared a dressing room with legends like Pelé and Franz Beckenbauer. In the New York team he scored 17 goals in 94 parties. Posteriorly, He had experiences in Swiss clubs before retiring as a player in 1991.
After hanging up the boots, Neeskens dedicated himself to technical direction, including roles as assistant at FC Barcelona among 2006 y 2008 con Frank Rijkaard and in the Dutch team, passing on his vast knowledge and experience to new generations of footballers. He 6 October 2024, The football world mourned the loss of Johan Neeskens, who died at 73 years in Algiers.