| |
Krol's versatile defending was a highlight of the 1974 finals. Allsport UK/Allsport |
The Dutch "total football" team of the early 1970s was as talented at the back as it was in attack, and while Cruyff pulled the strings going forward Krol was the team's natural leader in defense.
Like Cruyff, Krol was also a key part of the Ajax team that had dominated European club soccer in the years running up to the 1974 finals.
Playing at left back, Krol's versatile defending was a highlight of the tournament, as was his stunning long-range strike during the Netherlands' 4-0 win over Argentina in the second round. The Dutch reached the final in style, but fell apart against the more disciplined West Germans in the final, losing 2-1.
By 1978 Krol had graduated to sweeper and also inherited the captaincy from the absent Cruyff. Without its talismanic No. 14, the Dutch were more dependent on defensive discipline and Krol was exceptional in steering them to a second straight World Cup final.
But once again the Dutch were found wanting in the final. Dirk Nanninga scored a late equalizer against Argentina and Rob Resenbrink hit the post in the dying seconds but in injury time not even Krol could prevent the brilliant Mario Kempes winning the title for the host nation.
