Jan Jongbloed, the renowned Netherlands goalkeeper who was a finalist in two World Cup finals as part of the iconic “Clockwork Orange” teams in the 1970s, has passed away at the age of 82. The sad news was announced by the Netherlands Football Association on Thursday.
Although the Netherlands was considered one of the most dominant teams during that era, they fell short in consecutive finals against the host countries, losing 2-1 to West Germany in 1974 and 3-1 to Argentina four years later. The 1978 final was Jongbloed’s last international appearance.
Jongbloed, who played 24 times for the national team, was often seen without gloves. Netherlands coach Rinus Michels selected him as a goalkeeper who could contribute to the team’s renowned “total football” style by initiating moves and displaying exceptional ball control all over the field.
In the 1978 World Cup, Jongbloed began as a reserve goalkeeper but became the starter after Piet Schrijvers was injured in a group match against Italy.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Oranje goalie Jan Jongbloed (82). The legendary goalkeeper represented the national team in two World Cup finals in 1974 and 1978. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones,” expressed OnsOranje, the official supporter site for the Dutch national team, in a message on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Jongbloed’s playing style in the 1970s laid the foundation for modern-day goalkeepers, showcasing his adept control and distribution of the ball even outside his penalty area.
His approach stood in stark contrast to the traditional goalkeeper, who would largely remain on the goal-line, leaving creative responsibilities to the outfield players and adopting a hopeful long-ball tactic.
As a member of the dominant Dutch team, which often featured Johan Cruyff, Jongbloed set a still-unbroken record in international matches, going 683 minutes without conceding a goal for the Netherlands.
Throughout his professional career, Jongbloed primarily played for the Amsterdam club DWS, which later became FC Amsterdam. He also made appearances for Roda JC Kerkrade and Go Ahead Eagles. Retiring at the age of 44 after 717 matches, his final game cemented his status as the oldest player to ever feature in a Dutch professional match.
Tragically, Jongbloed’s son, Eric, who also played as a goalkeeper for DWS, lost his life in 1984 due to a lightning strike during a match.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
