Football History: Johan Cruyff – A World Cup Legend (1974)
Here’s a look at one of the most legendary players to have ever taken part in the World Cup. Johan Cruyff was Holland's number 14 player during the early 1970’s. His popularity is such that mention the name Cruyff anywhere in Holland and you are guaranteed to strike up a lively conversation. Thirty six years on from his sole World Cup finals appearance, the Dutch master remains a huge topic of debate witnessed by his recent admission as to why he infamously didn't play for Oranje in 1978.
Four years earlier, Holland's stylish number 14 was at his absolute peak. Having failed to qualify for the previous four tournaments, the Netherlands weren't considered to be one of the favorites. After all they had just qualified on goal difference after being pushed all the way by close neighbors Belgium. The world was forced to take notice as the stylish Dutch made light work of the first group phase. Johnny Rep scored both in their opening win against Uruguay before Sweden held Holland to a goalless draw in Dortmund. While the stalemate was shy on goals it will forever be remembered for Cruyff's classic turn which to this day bears his name.
Bulgaria was put to the sword by 4-1 in the last group game when Cruyff won his side an early penalty which was converted by Johan Neeskens. His reaction to the goal was classic Cruyff - instead of leaping with delight, he carefully gave out instructions to his team as they ran back to the centre circle. When he broke into the Ajax first team as a 17-year-old, Cruyff regularly used to dictate tactical instructions to players ten years his senior.
Confidence was never an issue for Johan Cruyff. He got on the score sheet for the first time against Argentina in the next group phase. Displaying his superb ability with both feet, Cruyff effortlessly trapped the ball, rounded the 'keeper and slotted home to make it 1-0. An assist and a late fourth capped another fabulous performance as everybody spoke about 'Total Football'. In total, Cruyff scored three goals in the 1974 tournament, provided three assists and created a total of 29 chances in open play. Ironically, West Germany failed to win either of those tournaments while Cruyff himself ensured the trend continued by going home with a runner’s up medal.
Having defeated East Germany 2-0, Holland was now installed as favorites and only needed a point against Brazil to reach the final. The spectacle failed to live up to the hype and the uncharacteristic physical play of the holders made for a difficult evening in Dortmund. Cruyff provided the magic as he created the opener for Johan Neeskens, then added a volley to make it two which displayed his impeccable balance. The script was written for Holland to win their first World Cup against the hosts and bitter foes West Germany in Munich. It couldn't have began better as Holland stroked the ball around, teasing their opponents, before Cruyff set off on a charging run forcing a penalty within the first minute. Neeskens converted and the resulting 88 minutes continue to be spoken about in Dutch households. West Germany crept back into the game clearly infuriated by Holland's attempt to humiliate them on home turf. By half-time, they were in front and held on to secure the win against a team many considered to be superior.
Like Hungary and Ferenc Puskas twenty years earlier, Holland and Cruyff were denied by West Germany. Years afterwards, Cruyff remarked that Holland became more famous for not winning the tournament. In 1978, Cruyff was mysteriously absent, as Holland lost in the final to the host nation but that's another story altogether. He was a magnificent player and is still remember for his great performances. Players like Cruyff have given the beautiful sport the glamour it has today.
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