Voices from the Sideline
14 June 2026“I notice that foreign teams play much more directly than Dutch clubs.”
Public interest is once again high this year. We asked a few football enthusiasts for their impressions of the tournament in its purest form.
Gunther Scholz from Ahaus is at Marveld Recreatie and is completely captivated by the game of football. He has just arrived and is full of enthusiasm for the tournament. He himself coaches children aged 3 (!) to 5 at his club, FC Oldenburg in Ahaus. From the age of four, he already introduces them to game formats. Gunther thinks the technical and tactical level is fantastic but is surprised by the height of some players. His neighbor in Ahaus happens to be Rob Reekers, a former FC Twente player and ex-international, with whom he regularly shares a cup of coffee. Worth noting!
Martin Schaap from Bunnik is staying with acquaintances at the campsite and has been to the Marveld Tournament several times before. “I was a referee for many years in amateur football in Utrecht and the surrounding area, and I enjoy watching here. The tournament is perfectly organized, and everything is spot on down to the smallest detail. I find the program booklet particularly impressive. It contains a lot of information and is an excellent reference. Keep it up!”
Peter Brouwer is a scout who has been in the football world for a very long time. He was a scout for 25 years at AZ, 2 years at FC Utrecht, and has now been at Ajax for 4 years. “This year, I find the tournament very balanced. I don’t see many standout players, nor is there a team that clearly stands above the rest. I notice that foreign teams play much more directly than Dutch clubs. We need a lot more time on the ball and are less goal-oriented. I find this a worrying development. I miss the desire to push forward and win matches in Dutch teams. Still, this tournament remains a wonderful stage. Especially with Brazilian players, I sometimes see moves that give me goosebumps!“
