The Netherlands – The Legacy of Oranje
The Netherlands national football team, famously known as Oranje, is one of the most influential teams in football history. With iconic players, a unique philosophy, and unforgettable kits, the Dutch team has left an indelible mark on the beautiful game. From Johan Cruyff’s Total Football to the modern stars of today, Oranje is a symbol of innovation, elegance and national pride.
TOTAL FOOTBALL AND THE RISE OF ORANJE
Dutch football rose to global prominence in the 1970s with the revolutionary concept of Total Football, led by the visionary Johan Cruyff and coach Rinus Michels. Players swapped positions with fluidity and control, dominating opponents with intelligence and technique. Though the Netherlands lost the World Cup finals in 1974 and 1978, their style captivated the world and forever changed how football was played.
THE 1988 EURO GLORY
After the heartbreak of the ’70s, the Netherlands finally tasted major tournament success in 1988. Led by captain Ruud Gullit and the unstoppable Marco van Basten, the Dutch won the UEFA European Championship in Germany. Van Basten’s volley in the final against the Soviet Union is still regarded as one of the greatest goals in football history. The 1988 team remains legendary, not just for winning, but for doing it in style.
MODERN ERA – NEAR GLORY AND NEW HOPE
In the 2010 World Cup, the Netherlands came within inches of winning their first world title. With players like Wesley Sneijder, Arjen Robben and Robin van Persie, Oranje reached the final but lost narrowly to Spain in extra time. Four years later, they finished third at the 2014 World Cup, with memorable moments like Van Persie’s flying header against Spain and Louis van Gaal’s tactical masterclasses.
Today, with a new generation led by stars like Virgil van Dijk, Frenkie de Jong and Cody Gakpo, the Netherlands is once again a team full of promise. Oranje continues to inspire with a blend of tradition and youthful flair.
ICONIC SHIRTS
• 1974 – Johan Cruyff’s No. 14 shirt from the Total Football era, orange with black accents.
• 1988 – Van Basten and Gullit’s geometric pattern jersey, a cult classic from Euro ‘88.
• 2010 – Robben and Sneijder’s modern orange kits, worn in the World Cup final.
• 2014 – The kit of Van Persie’s iconic header and the third-place finish in Brazil.
Each of these shirts represents a unique chapter in Dutch football history – a story of bold ideas, near misses and unforgettable moments.
LEGENDARY DUTCH PLAYERS
From the creative genius of Johan Cruyff to the elegance of Dennis Bergkamp, the power of Ruud Gullit, the brilliance of Marco van Basten, and the leadership of Virgil van Dijk – the Netherlands has produced some of the greatest players in the world. Their legacy lives on in both club and international football.
DID YOU KNOW?
• The Netherlands has reached three World Cup finals: 1974, 1978 and 2010 – but is still chasing that elusive trophy.
• Johan Cruyff famously wore No. 14, a number that became iconic worldwide.
• The 1988 Euro-winning shirt is one of the most collected jerseys in football history.
• Van Persie’s diving header against Spain in 2014 became a viral sensation known as “The Flying Dutchman.”
THE LEGACY OF ORANJE
The story of the Netherlands is one of beauty, innovation and perseverance. Oranje has given football some of its most treasured memories – not always as winners, but always as creators. With a loyal fanbase known as the Oranje Legion, and a commitment to attacking football, the Netherlands remains a team that fans around the world admire.
Celebrate the brilliance of Dutch football with our Oranje Collection – featuring hand-signed shirts from the most iconic moments in the Netherlands’ history. Every piece comes with a certificate of authenticity.