With the World Cup just a matter of weeks away, this current round of international fixtures has provided a good chance to see who the early favourites are – the Netherlands are certainly in contention.
With a highly experienced coach in Louis van Gaal, as well as difference makers in attack, the Oranje have the tools required to make an impact in Qatar this winter.
However, the Netherlands have had these assets before – many times – and have often failed to capitalise.
Have Netherlands won the World Cup?
In news that may surprise you, the Netherlands have actually never won the World Cup since the tournament began in 1930.
That is despite producing icons such as Ruud Gullit, Marco van Basten, Arjen Robben, Johan Cruyff, Robin van Persie and many more.
In truth, the Oranje have just been bizarrely unfortunate despite boasting a wealth of individual talent.
They actually hold the record for playing in the most World Cup finals without winning the trophy.
The Netherlands reached the final in 1974, where they sadly suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to West Germany.
The Dutch then reached a second successive final in 1978, although Argentina triumphed by a 3-1 scoreline after extra-time.
More recently, the Netherlands came within touching distance of the famous trophy in 2010 when reaching the final in South Africa, although an extra-time winner from Andres Iniesta gave Spain a 1-0 win.
Despite failing to qualify for the World Cup last time out in 2018, Van Gaal did enjoy some form of success at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where he guided his country to third place.
Netherlands can win the World Cup
In our view, the makings of a World Cup winning side are certainly there for the Netherlands right now.
There is a strong blend of experience coupled with youthful energy, as the older, wiser heads of Virgil van Dijk and Memphis Depay compliment emerging prospects such as Cody Gakpo and Jurrien Timber.
With Van Gaal set to be replaced by Ronald Koeman after the tournament, the Netherlands squad should also be motivated to give their 71-year-old manager a memorable sendoff.
In our view, something special could certainly be in store for the Dutch this winter.
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