“I want the captain to show some passion” - Netherlands legend slams Virgil van Dijk, dubs recent Euro 2024 performance as ‘disgraceful’
Former Netherlands international Rafael van der Vaart has criticised Oranje captain Virgil van Dijk for his lack of 'passion' after Ronald Koema's side finished third in Euro 2024 Group C following a 3-2 defeat to Austria.
In a five-goal fest in Berlin on Tuesday (June 25), a Donyell Malen own goal - the first by the Oranje at any European Championships - inside six minutes pegged back the 1988 winners.
However, Cody Gakpo restored parity two minutes after the restart, but Austria were back in front through Romano Schmid 12 minutes later. The Oranje restored parity once again, this time through Memphis Depay, 15 minutes from time, but Austria were back in front two minutes later.
Ralf Rangnick's side held on for the win - and with France drawing 1-1 with Poland in the other group game - surprisingly finished atop Group D, relegating the Netherlands to third.
Having a go at Van Dijk and Co. for their 'disgraceful' performance, Van der Vaart said (as per AFC Ajax):
"We played the way Virgil van Dijk just talked! We just had to watch a disgraceful performance! I want the captain from our country to show some PASSION!"
Koeman's side await the Group C winners in the Round of 16 on June 30 for a place in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals.
How has Virgil van Dijk fared for Euro 2024 contenders Netherlands?
Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk has been a solid performer for his country, scoring nine times in 71 games since his senior international debut in a 2-0 friendly loss to Italy in September 2014.
The Liverpool centre-back had arrived at Euro 2024 in sublime form, scoring in the friendly wins over Canada and the Republic of Ireland while helping keep clean sheets.
However, Van Dijk has struggled to replicate that form at Euro 2024, where he played the full 90 minutes in all three games. The Oranje did keep a clean sheet in a goalless draw with France in their second group game, though.