Thursday 24 March 2016

Holland France Friendly to Halt in 14th Minute


The international friendly between Holland and France on Friday will be halted in the 14th minute in a tribute to Johan Cruyff, the Dutch Football Association (KNVB) has confirmed.

Cruyff, who died of cancer at the age of 68 on Thursday, scored 33 goals in 48 appearances for Holland between 1966 and 1977. His legacy will be remembered in a special minute’s silence to take place in the 14th minute – Cruyff’s shirt number for club and country – at Ajax’s Amsterdam Arena.

“The KNVB, including the Dutch national team, its staff and directors are saddened by the news that Johan Cruyff died on Thursday in Barcelona at the age of 68,” read a statement on the Dutch FA’s website.

Cruyff died in the presence of his family, to whom go our thoughts at this time. Cruyff’s death is a great loss for Dutch football.

“On Friday, the Dutch national team will face France in Amsterdam. Because of the great contribution of Johan Cruyff to national and international football in the 14th minute, the match will be shut down for a minute’s silence.

“Also amateur clubs are called to reflect on the death of Cruyff. What clubs do is free for them to decide, but could include hanging flags at half-mast, wearing black arm bands or observing a silence in the 14th minute.”


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