Euro 2008

[Adrian II]

But what I have not witnessed was an opponent that outclasses France on sheer technical prowess. Players, who are simply better, more gifted.

As always I like your analysis, Louis. The sheer physical prowess of all the Dutch players isn't in doubt, they lost very few duels on that. The technical prowess isn't spread equally well. Only a few have this 'teflon' quality that makes them appear untouchable. Van de Sar, Van Nistelrooy, Robben and Kuyt certainly have it. Robben displayed it when he made his brilliant solo goal. You can see it in the run-up to Van Persie's goal, too. Van Nistelrooy makes an otherworldly flick in left field that takes care of three French defenders and sends away Robben virtually unchallenged, who then passes to Van Persie in front of the goal. All textbook, except that incredible flick.

I think I know where that little flick comes from. It can not be taught, exercised or drilled. It is the result of kids playing street soccer from the age of six or seven upwards, day in, day out. That's where very young players develop the neural tissue and spatial orientation needed for such moves. The Brazilians used to be past masters as it, because football is totally integrated with street culture there and it is played in impossible spaces and on terrible gravel plots where technical control is everything. Fortunately this culture isn't yet lost in The Neds, or so it seems. Van Nistelrooy certainly has it.

But yeah, respect for the Bleus. They always had exceptional character, and they haven't lost it. They gave it their best as if this were the final.