FRANCE 98 – Netherlands – D. Bergkamp: “We'll need one or two matches to be functioning at full throttle”
Netherlands – D. Bergkamp: “We’ll need one or two matches to be functioning at full throttle” 18.06.98 18h20 CET Comments made in Roquebrune (Alpes Maritimes County)
Ronald DE BOEUR (7):
“I’m confident about our match against the KOREAN REPUBLIC (Group E). We played well against BELGIUM, our only worry was not to have scored any goals. Our team is better than that which took part in Euro 96. The players are in a good frame of mind and our game is well organised. We should take six points in the next two matches.”
Dennis BERGKAMP (8):
“It’s difficult to be in top condition right at the start of a long competition. We’ll need one or two matches to be functioning at full throttle. The match against the KOREAN REPUBLIC (Group E) should be better than the BELGIUM match.”
Marc OVERMARS (14):
“I’m confident. We played quite well against BELGIUM and we’re getting better. We have players from some of the best clubs in Europe. For two years now, our entire group has been gaining experience and we have improved. We owe it to ourselves to prove our worth during this competition.
The team atmosphere is good. We know each other well enough to accept criticism. Every one of us has something to contribute. There’s no real leader in the team, but Frank DE BOER (4) has gained a lot of confidence over the past two years.
It is often said that the Dutch don’t have a strong enough spirit. I think that’s wrong. Despite its small size, our country has produced a lot of great players and has won the European Nations Cup as well as the European Cup.
Regarding the competition as a whole, I think the quality of play will improve with each round. Up until now, the team that has impressed me most is FRANCE (Group C).”
Clarence SEEDORF (10):
“I try to organise things so that I can watch some matches on television. I especially don’t want to miss the SPAIN (Group D) and BRAZIL (Group A) matches. FRANCE (Group C) have some good players, but they have a great weight on their shoulders. Their 3-0 victory against SOUTH AFRICA has added to that pressure.”
Pierre VAN HOOIJDONK (17):
“I don’t mind being a substitute. In this team, I always have been. I try to do everything I can to help the team. The NETHERLANDS have many good players and there can only be eleven starters.
When I’m on the substitutes bench, I remain focused and I’m tense, especially in the 2nd Half. On the other hand, when I come onto the pitch, I prefer for the team to be leading, as that allows me to play more freely.”
