Sporting heroes : Johan Neskeens - Career & video of Dutch midfield legend

 

Johan Neeskens, born on September 15, 1951, in Heemstede, Netherlands, is regarded as one of football’s finest midfielders and a central figure in the development of "Total Football" during the 1970s. Known for his dynamic style, exceptional work rate, and technical prowess, Neeskens was a versatile player who excelled both in attack and defense. His intelligence on the pitch, along with his hard tackling and tireless running, made him a vital component of the legendary Dutch teams of the era.

Style of Play

Dynamic, Versatile, and Tenacious:

Johan Neeskens was a midfielder known for his box-to-box capabilities. His style of play was characterized by his relentless energy, tackling ability, and composure under pressure. He had a keen sense of positioning, allowing him to break up opposition attacks while also driving forward to support his team’s offensive efforts.

Neeskens was equally adept at passing and shooting, contributing both as a playmaker and goal scorer. He had a powerful shot and was also an expert penalty taker, which was a crucial asset to his teams.

As part of the Dutch "Total Football" philosophy, Neeskens was highly versatile, seamlessly transitioning between different roles on the pitch, whether as a defensive anchor or an attacking midfielder.

Career Achievements

Club Career

Neeskens’ club career was distinguished by his success at some of Europe’s top clubs, most notably Ajax and Barcelona.

Ajax (1970–1974): During his time at Ajax, Neeskens was part of the team that dominated European football in the early 1970s.

He won three consecutive European Cups (1971, 1972, 1973), with Ajax’s fluid style of play revolutionizing modern football.

Neeskens was integral to Ajax's domestic success as well, helping the team win multiple Eredivisie titles and KNVB Cups.

FC Barcelona (1974–1979): After leaving Ajax, Neeskens joined Barcelona, where he reunited with Dutch legend Johan Cruyff.

At Barcelona, he was instrumental in the club's victory in the 1979 Copa del Rey and continued to showcase his exceptional midfield skills.

His time at Barcelona, while not as trophy-laden as his Ajax career, solidified his reputation as one of the best midfielders in the world.

New York Cosmos (1979–1984): In the later stages of his career, Neeskens moved to the United States to play for the New York Cosmos in the NASL, where he helped the team win the NASL Soccer Bowl in 1980.

International Career

Johan Neeskens was a cornerstone of the Dutch national team during the 1970s, a golden era for Dutch football.

He played a pivotal role in the Netherlands reaching the 1974 FIFA World Cup final, where they were narrowly defeated by West Germany. Neeskens scored five goals during the tournament, including a penalty in the final.

Neeskens was also part of the squad that finished as runners-up in the 1978 FIFA World Cup, where the Netherlands lost to Argentina. His performances in both World Cups earned him widespread recognition.

Neeskens scored a total of 17 goals in 49 appearances for the Netherlands and was renowned for his leadership and consistency on the international stage.

Titles and Achievements

Ajax:

European Cup: 1971, 1972, 1973

Eredivisie: 1970, 1972, 1973

KNVB Cup: 1971, 1972

FC Barcelona:

Copa del Rey: 1978

New York Cosmos:

NASL Soccer Bowl: 1980, 1982

International:

FIFA World Cup runner-up: 1974, 1978

Individual: Neeskens was ranked highly among the best players in the world during the 1970s, earning a place in the FIFA World Cup All-Star Team in 1974.

Legacy and Influence

Johan Neeskens’ influence on football is profound. As one of the key players in the development of "Total Football," his versatility and work ethic became a model for modern midfield play. His role in leading the Netherlands to two World Cup finals and his successes with Ajax and Barcelona earned him a place among the greatest footballers of all time.

Neeskens was inducted into the Dutch Football Hall of Fame and is often regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of his era, remembered for his tactical intelligence, tireless energy, and ability to perform at the highest level in both club and international football.

Summary of Achievements

European Cups: 3 (1971, 1972, 1973)

FIFA World Cup runner-up: 1974, 1978

Eredivisie titles: 3

Copa del Rey: 1978

NASL Soccer Bowl: 1980, 1982

International caps: 49 (17 goals for the Netherlands)

Johan Neeskens remains an iconic figure in world football, celebrated for his skill, tenacity, and contribution to one of the most innovative eras in the sport’s history.

Want the ball skills & prowess of Neskeens in below video