Netherlands topped their UEFA Nations League group after a 1-0 victory over Belgium on Sunday evening. Michael Bell provides his player ratings for the Oranje players.

Remko Pasveer 8/10: At the age of 39, Pasveer may have played his way into being Netherlands number one for the World Cup after a fine performance against Belgium. He was calm in possession and made an excellent save to deny Onana.

Denzel Dumfries 6/10: Not his finest performance in Oranje. A few shaky moments in the first half but came into the game after the break as he was able to attack more.

Daley Blind 7/10: An improved performance from Blind in Oranje as he was calm defensively and kept the ball going forward when he had it. Played the full game at left-back and remains the first-choice going into the World Cup.

Virgil van Dijk 8/10: As usual, he was strong defensively, but he also got Netherlands going in the second half with an excellent long ball to Taylor before he then headed in the winning goal.

Jurrien Timber 7.5/10: Kept Eden Hazard and De Bruyne quiet throughout the game. Another calm and assured game for the defender, who is now got to be one of the first names on the teamsheet.

Nathan Ake 7/10: Along with Van Dijk and Timber, Ake continues to excel in Oranje. He was substituted at the break but his first half was strong and he created some danger when in possession.

Marten de Roon 6.5/10: Came in for Frenkie de Jong and obviously does not have the same ability on the ball but he worked hard and kept hassling De Bruyne throughout. A good shift.

Steven Berghuis 5.5/10: Was quite sloppy from the start before going off early injured.

Davy Klaassen 5.5/10: As usual, he didn’t get involved much in the game but he popped up a few times in dangerous moments without managing to find the net. Doesn’t offer the creativity in the number ten position that Netherlands will need at the World Cup.

Steven Bergwijn 5.5/10: A man in form but he struggled in the first half to get involved. After the break he was better, but he couldn’t find the net from a few promising positions.

Vincent Janssen 5.5/10: A hard-working performance but he was only on the pitch for 45 minutes before being substituted. Can hold the ball up well but Memphis Depay’s position up front is safe.

Substitutes

Cody Gakpo 7.5/10: Came on early for the injured Berghuis and took some time to get going, but after the break he was dangerous. He set up the goal and also showed some lovely moves before the end. Looks almost certain to be in the squad.

Kenneth Taylor 7/10: Taylor was given 45 minutes and he showed what he can do with his dynamism in the midfield. Not a surprise that Netherlands were better in the second half after he came on.

Tyrell Malacia 6/10: Was put into a centre-back position on the left instead of his usual place out wide. Was a bit awkward at times in the role but wasn’t embarrassed at any point. It seems he still has Blind ahead of him in the pecking order.

Steven De Vrij N/A: Not on the pitch long enough for a review

Ryan Gravenberch N/A: Not on the pitch long enough for a review




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