In a UEFA Nations League match where the Netherlands drew 1-1 with Germany, 22-year-old Ruben van Bommel made his senior international debut as a substitute and provided an assist for the equalizing goal. After the match, the young Van Bommel gave an interview.

Congratulations, is this one of the best nights of your life?

It's certainly one of the best, yes.

What was best for you personally tonight?

I think first and foremost, making my debut for the Dutch national team, because... well, it's the highest honor for a Dutch footballer, and I'm very happy to have achieved it. And then I also got an assist. Yes, that was also very pleasant.

I thought you'd mention that outside-of-the-foot assist first.

No, no, I think the debut is number one for me.

How do you feel about your performance?

I didn't even remember what minute I came on as a substitute (83rd minute), but you have to get into the rhythm of the game right away. I had some challenges immediately after coming on. Yes, that feeling was a bit special. But after that, I performed quite well, and I think I also had some shots on goal later.

I checked, and you came on in the 83rd minute, and in the 89th minute, you attempted a curved shot, but the ball went wide of the goal.

I think the goalkeeper saved it.

Yes, that's right.

Yes. But honestly, I thought the ball would go in because the goalkeeper reacted slowly, but he made a very good save. Maybe the shot wasn't powerful enough, but anyway, there were other chances after that moment.

Yes, then the assist came.

I made an interception at that moment, and I thought, "I need to start running now." I saw Gakpo unmarked at the far post. So I thought, I have to deliver the ball no matter what.

He finished it brilliantly.

Yes, I managed to deliver the ball there somehow, and in a very beautiful way. The pace and height of the pass were perfect. I think he might have preferred a low pass, but... in that situation, I thought, "I'd better not pass with my left foot." I felt there was a better chance of delivering with my right outside foot, and if you can volley into the near corner with the inside of your foot like that, it's also very beautiful.

How difficult is it to get into the rhythm of the game right away when you come on after 80 minutes?

Yes, it's difficult, but you can't... you can't ease off. Especially as a substitute, you absolutely can't. You have to give everything for the team. I think all substitutes do that.

How have the last few days been?

Very good. Adapting to the level of play, adapting to my teammates, and the tactical style—everything has gone smoothly for me.

What's the difference in level? Of course, I know it's higher, but where exactly is it noticeable?

I think the biggest difference is physical. These players all play in the top leagues in the world, so you have to be in top physical condition, and everyone here is, so that's the biggest difference.

Do you feel you're also becoming stronger physically, so it's easier to keep up now?

I think I can keep up physically.

What about the style of play? This is all new for everyone in the national team. How has it been the last few days with the new coach?

We've done a lot of tactical training. He certainly had to convey his expectations in a very short time, which isn't easy because usually you have six weeks of preparation, and now there are only three days. So there's a lot of tactical content, and we all have to work together to execute this plan, and we're all doing our best.

What was the main focus of training in the last few days?

Mainly many tactical aspects, about how to press high, these basic things everyone needs to understand, and everyone needs to be on the same page.

What did you say after the match?

I said it's an honor to share the dressing room with these teammates, and I hope we can win the next three matches.

Tonight, the sons of two star players made their debuts.

Yes, that was indeed very special. Of course, I've known Max (Maatsen) for a long time, we're good friends, and it was very nice to make my debut in the same match.

Your grandfather (van Marwijk) was watching; you'll surpass him in the future.

Oh, I think I have to work a bit longer for that. But at least my grandfather is happy now.

Diterjemahkan oleh AI.

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