Netherlands 1974: The Greatest Team Never to Win the World Cup? | How Good Were They?

In this episode of How Good Were They?, we revisit the legendary Netherlands 1974 World Cup squad, a team that changed football forever through Total Football. Led by Johan Cruyff and coached by Rinus Michels, this Dutch side wowed the world with their fluid positional play, pressing, and attacking brilliance. But despite their revolutionary style, they fell short in the final against West Germany.

We explore the stars — Cruyff, Johan Neeskens, Ruud Krol, Rob Rensenbrink, Johnny Rep — and how Ajax’s dominance at club level shaped this golden era of Dutch football. We relive iconic moments, including their goal in the World Cup final before West Germany even touched the ball.

Then come the curveballs: can you be considered truly great without winning a trophy? What if Cruyff had played in the 1978 World Cup? And did their commitment to beautiful football cost them the ultimate prize?

With quotes, fan opinions, and a deep dive into their lasting legacy, we ask: Was Netherlands 1974 the greatest team never to win it all?

🎧 Listen now and join the debate.

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