Wieke Kaptein Praises Oranje’s Recovery After Play‑off Win

Wieke Kaptein said after the 3‑1 victory over Poland in Almelo that the Netherlands women's national team must now fight to qualify for the World Cup. The win puts the side into the play‑offs for the upcoming autumn. The win was required because a 3‑2 loss to Ireland the previous Friday removed direct qualification from the Netherlands' control. France and Ireland also needed to draw, but France secured a 1‑0 win and clinched their World Cup ticket. Arjan Veurink said he only paid attention to the match when goals were scored and did not follow the French game closely. He added that the team's growth is “absolutely visible” but that more improvement is still needed. Kaptein praised the squad for “good recovery” after the costly defeat to Ireland and highlighted the team's ability to win the ball back within five seconds. She noted that the side showed good football and must keep that level. Kaptein emphasized the presence of many new players as a positive sign for Dutch football. She concluded that the team must now build on the good pot they have shown.