The 1994 World Cup – Van Basten

Lore & Background

Van Basten played a pivotal role in the Netherlands' victory at UEFA Euro 1988, scoring five goals including a hat-trick against England, the winning goal against West Germany, and a spectacular volley in the final against the Soviet Union. He never scored in the World Cup finals. The Netherlands exited the 1990 World Cup early, losing 2–1 to West Germany in the second round. At Euro 1992, the Netherlands lost to Denmark in a penalty shoot-out, with Schmeichel saving a penalty from Van Basten. Van Basten had hoped to play for his country at the 1994 World Cup, but his club ordered him not to take part amid fear of ruining his rehabilitation from an ankle injury.

Reader's Guide

It states that Van Basten did not participate in the 1994 World Cup because his club ordered him not to take part. Therefore, no group-stage results for the Netherlands at the 1994 World Cup are provided in the source.

Did You Know?

• Van Basten was named FIFA World Player of the Year in 1992 and won the Ballon d'Or three times.
• He scored over 300 goals at club and international level but retired at age 30 due to a recurring ankle injury.
• Van Basten was ranked sixth in the FIFA Player of the Century internet poll in 1998.