Xavi praises the Dutch and keeper ter Stegen after a friendly draw

After the draw between the Dutch national team and Germany, head coach Xavi Hernández spoke praising words. He praised not only Joey Veerman and Ruben van Bommel, but also addressed the German goalkeeper Marc ter Stegen, former long-time keeper of FC Barcelona, for his performance.

Veerman and Van Bommel in the spotlight

Xavi emphasized that both Joey Veerman and Ruben van Bommel have shown their quality during the match. He called their effort crucial for the Dutch team's play. The Spanish head coach praised their technical abilities and their contribution to the attacking plan.

Ter Stegen receives praise from the Spanish coach

The German goalkeeper also received a standing ovation from Xavi. “He played an incredible match,” the head coach declared, then added: “He is a good friend, a top bloke, a top professional.” Xavi pointed out that Germany owes its point today to Marc.

Although Ter Stegen appeared very hesitant with balls from the flanks, he saved two situations because the referee disallowed the subsequent goals. Xavi emphasized that this luck helped the German side to avoid losing the match.

Ruben Van Bommel provides the decisive Dutch free‑kick assist

Ter Stegen as first choice for Germany

Since Manuel Neuer's retirement, Marc ter Stegen has been Germany's first‑choice goalkeeper. He stated: “My goal is always to be number one. I want to be one hundred percent and be able to handle that responsibility.” His ambition now manifests in the national squad.

After the match, Ter Stegen spoke warmly about Xavi: “I told him that he has built a very good team in a short time and that I am very happy for him. Xavi is a nice person and it has been a privilege for me to play at Barcelona with and under him.”

The German press noted that Ter Stegen returned to action 473 days after his last international in his new home country. In the first half he completed only nine of sixteen passes. Despite some sloppy distribution he made strong saves, but he could not prevent the equaliser in the final minutes.

Ruben van Bommel provides artistic assist in Netherlands‑Germany draw

With this exchange of compliments, Xavi Hernández shows respect for both his own Dutch players and for an opponent. It underscores the mutual appreciation among top professionals, regardless of the colour of the shirt.