Sporting legends : Marco Van Basten - Dutch Football superstar , Career HLs , video

 

Marco van Basten is one of football's most admired strikers, known for his grace, technique, and prolific scoring ability. Born in Utrecht, Netherlands, on October 31 1964 he rose to global stardom in the 1980s and early '90s, particularly during his time with Ajax, AC Milan, and the Netherlands national team. Known for his composure and elegance on the ball, van Basten combined athleticism with technique, marking him as one of the finest forwards in the history of football.

Style of Play

Van Basten was celebrated for his clinical finishing, intelligence, and agility. As a forward, he was known for:

Precision and Technique: His control and touch were extraordinary, enabling him to execute complex moves and volleys with ease.

Aerial Ability: He was dangerous in the air, often scoring powerful headers despite his slender frame.

Ball Control and Poise: Known for his composure, he could control and deliver under pressure, displaying a cool-headed approach on the pitch.

Van Basten's goals often involved remarkable timing and control, as evidenced by his famous volley in the 1988 UEFA European Championship final, which is one of the greatest goals in football history.

Career Highlights

Ajax (1981–1987)

Van Basten started his professional career with Ajax, where he won the Eredivisie and KNVB Cup multiple times.

He was the top scorer in the Eredivisie four times (1984, 1985, 1986, and 1987), showcasing his natural goal-scoring ability.

His 1985–86 season saw him score 37 goals in 26 matches, winning the European Golden Boot.

AC Milan (1987–1995)

Transferring to AC Milan in 1987, van Basten became a central figure in one of the most successful clubs of the era. With Milan, he won three Serie A titles (1988, 1992, and 1993) and two European Cups (1989 and 1990).

His peak years came in Milan, where he won the Ballon d'Or three times (1988, 1989, and 1992).

He was renowned for forming a formidable trio with Dutch teammates Ruud Gullit and Frank Rijkaard under manager Arrigo Sacchi.

Netherlands National Team

Van Basten was instrumental in leading the Netherlands to victory in the 1988 UEFA European Championship. His volley against the Soviet Union in the final is legendary, a seemingly impossible goal from an acute angle that sealed the 2-0 win.

Though he only played in one World Cup, in 1990, the Netherlands was knocked out in the Round of 16, which was a significant disappointment for the team.

Accolades and Recognition

Three-time Ballon d’Or Winner (1988, 1989, 1992)

European Golden Boot (1986)

Named FIFA World Player of the Year and UEFA Best Player in Europe

Included in numerous all-time XI lists and UEFA Team of the Century

Legacy and Influence

Marco van Basten’s career, though shortened by injury, left a deep legacy in world football. His refined style, versatility as a forward, and ability to deliver during critical moments made him a role model for future strikers. His AC Milan tenure set a benchmark in European football, and his achievements with the Netherlands cemented his status as a national hero. After his retirement, van Basten contributed to football as a coach and later as a pundit, further influencing the game he had graced with such elegance.

In the below video watch some of the goal scoring prowess of Van Basten