Ruben van Bommel caps debut with assist as father Mark readies Belgium role
Ruben van Bommel made his first appearance for the Netherlands national team on Tuesday, delivering a decisive assist to Cody Gakpo in the 92nd minute of a 1‑1 Nations League draw with Germany. The moment arrived just one day before his father Mark van Bommel steps into his inaugural match as coach of the Belgian national side, the Red Devils.
Family history and personal pride
Ruben, the 22‑year‑old PSV forward, said the occasion was "something very beautiful" and highlighted that three generations of Van Bommels have now represented the Netherlands. His grandfather Bert van Marwijk earned a single cap, while Mark accumulated 79 appearances. "It is the highest a footballer can achieve, and it is fantastic," the son told after the game.
Mark van Bommel, who was busy preparing for his debut against Italy, watched his son’s contribution, "Undoubtedly," he confirmed, adding that the family’s shared legacy added a special edge to the evening.
Match details and the assist
Germany took the lead in the first half through Felix Nmecha after a blocked attempt from Karim Adeyemi. The Netherlands pressed for an equaliser, and in injury time, Ruben collected the ball from Serge Gnabry at midfield, cut inside and curled a low pass with the outside of his foot to Gakpo, who slotted home in the 92nd minute.
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The assist placed Ruben in contention for the season’s assist of the year, a remarkable start to his international career. He entered the match as a substitute and was involved in the decisive play within minutes of his debut.
Both Xavi Hernández for the Netherlands and Jürgen Klopp for Germany were also making their first appearances as national team managers, adding further intrigue to the fixture.
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Netherlands will continue their Nations League campaign on Sunday away to Serbia, while Mark van Bommel will lead Belgium against Italy on Friday in Rome, marking the start of his tenure as the Red Devils’ head coach.