Relieved Reizier sees chances for Jong the Oranje in the play‑offs

Michael Reiziger, journalist at VI, radiated relief when Jong the Oranje secured a place in the play‑offs on Tuesday evening to qualify for the European Championship in Serbia and Albania, after a convincing 4‑0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina and after Israel lost points against Norway.

A long road to the play‑offs

Reiziger described the evening as “a very beautiful football evening in which it remained exciting until the end”. He recalled two times a goal conceded in the final minute and Israel’s draw in the closing stages against Slovenia, which meant he “had to fall on our side once”.

He added that the qualification series “showed a team that could win” and that “in every match there were chances to win”. His confidence in a good finish remained unchanged.

Outlook and potential players

With the play‑offs looming, Reiziger was asked whether he would consult with national coach Xavi about deploying Gjibai Zechiël and Ruben van Bommel, both 22 years old and eligible to play based on age. Zechiël has already played during the qualification period, Van Bommel has not yet.

Jong the Oranje saves itself with a Norway draw and reaches Euro play‑offs

Reiziger emphasized the “giant steps” the team has taken, partly thanks to players who now have a year of Eredivisie‑experience, such as Elijah Dijkstra (formerly Sparta Under‑21) and Ayoub Oufkir.

Elijah Dijkstra, reporter and presenter, praised the squad’s resilience and warned that “the qualification for the European Championship is still not secured”. He recalled that there are “two matches” left and that “the first match is still in hand”.

Watch out – Ruben van Bommel on his way to Europe's elite

The combination of a strong group dynamic and individual development, according to Reiziger, makes the upcoming confrontations crucial for the final European Championship qualification.