The 30 best players in World Cup history
By James Dudko
21. Johan Neeskens, Netherlands
It wasn’t just Johan Cruyff who defined the Netherlands of the 1970s. Johan Neeskens was also a feature of the most stylish and entertaining squad to never lift the trophy.
He was outstanding in 1974, offering a worthy complement to Cruyff, Ruud Krol, Arie Haan and Rob Rensenbrink. Keeping pace with Cruyff’s mercurial brain was no easy task, but Neeskens was never behind the curve thanks to his ingenuity, industry and flair.
Five goals represented a decent haul for a midfielder with a nose for goal and a keen eye for a pass.
He was in the final in ’74, but lost out to West Germany after scoring from the penalty spot. It was a bitter blow, but Neeskens still had enough physical and mental reserves to take on an even bigger role four years later.
Neither Cruyff nor Wim van Hanegem made the trip to Argentina in ’78. Their absences left Neeskens to be conductor-in-chief for his nation.
It was a role he relished, as he effortlessly combined with Rensenbrink and Johnny Rep. The trio swept the Netherlands to another final, but Argentina had too much power and stamina.
Neeskens was on the losing end twice, but his skills lit up two World Cups for one of the best international teams to grace the sport.