Marco van Basten
The former Dutch striker scored a total of five goals, including a hat trick against England, the winner in the semi-final against West Germany, and a fantastic volley in the final against the Soviet Union.
- NDTVSports
- Updated: May 26, 2012 08:39 PM IST
Full name: Marcel van Basten
Date of birth: 31 October 1964 (age 47)
Place of birth: Utrecht, Netherlands
Playing position: Striker
Current role: SC Heerenveen (Manager)
The former Dutch striker scored a total of five goals, including a hat trick against England, the winner in the semi-final against West Germany, and a fantastic volley in the final against the Soviet Union. He was the tournament's top scorer. In the final against USSR, van Basten set up Ruud Gullit for the opener and then hit a tremendous volley from a difficult angle to set up a 2-0 win for the Dutch to give them their first major title. He was also the European footballer of the year in 1988.
Before the finals, Basten's chances to play at the Euro were dealt with a severe blow after an ankle injury. Infact he sat out the first game as Dutch coach prefered Bosman over him. Marco van Basten did not play in a group stage 1-0 loss to Soviet Union but became a regular fixture in the Dutch side by the time final tournament came.
He received the Ballon d'Or thrice in his distinguished career which also includes 278 goals. Later he also managed the Netherlands national team during 2004 to 2008. Under him the team reached the round of 16 in the FIFA World Cup 2006 and the quarter finals in the Euro 2008.