Hockey World Cup 2018, Netherlands vs Canada: 3 Standout Players from Crossover 4

#1 Thijs van Dam (Netherlands)

Thijs van Dam's incisive approach was too hot to handle for the Canadian

defence

Upon taking a 2-0 lead into half-time, Netherlands could not extend their advantage during the early stages of the third quarter.

Although they were in no significant danger of conceding a goal, the Dutch needed someone to step up and take the game away from Canada's reach.

In Thijs van Dam, they found their perfect enforcer. Having set-up Netherlands' second goal, the 21-year old got himself on the score-sheet at the 40th minute.

The quality of his finish meant that Carter had no choice but to watch the ball sail into the back of the net.

With the match all but sealed in their favour, Netherlands asserted their dominance by making it 5-0 in the 58th minute. Their attackers surged into the inner circle and reeled off a slew of stunning passes.

After receiving a promising pass, Thijs Van Dam spun his way around the marksman before firing the ball past goal-keeper Carter.

Head coach Maximiliano Caldas should be delighted that the young forward's ominous form will add depth to their team combination ahead of the high-pressure quarterfinal clash against the hosts.

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