Netherlands have always been strong contenders at FIFA World Cups, but are yet to win one. They have reached the finals thrice [1974, 1978, and 2010], but were outdone on all three occasions. However, Johan Neeskens,70, who played a pivotal role in taking the Dutch team to the final in 1974 and 1978, does not feel that the Dutch have underperformed over the years.

Three-time finalists

“For a country like Holland, with such a tiny population, participating in so many European tournaments and World Cups is a big achievement. We came in the World Cup finals thrice, didn’t win, but how many countries have even reached the finals? I am proud of what we have achieved. Hopefully, we’ll win someday,” Neeskens tells mid-day on the sidelines of the launch of the World Coaches Program in association with Acosa Sports at Cooperage on Monday.