September 9 – The German and Dutch FAs have signed a memorandum of understanding to regularly transfer knowledge between the two governing bodies.
“On the field, the DFB and the KNVB are each other’s competitors, like today [Friday] in Hamburg,” said KNVB chairman Michael van Praag. “Off the pitch, we work very closely and constructively together and we maintain friendly ties. We have now strengthened those ties in a Memorandum of Understanding.”
The MoU between the two FAs aims to exchange and transfer knowledge in various areas. Representatives of the DFB and KNVB will meet twice a year to share experience and learn about their different approaches to management, technical operations and innovation, according to a Dutch FA statement.
“With this MoU, we not only strengthen our relations with our neighbours, but we also emphasise its friendly nature,” said DFB vice president Rainer Koch. “We look forward to a constructive exchange with the KNVB.”
In the past the Netherlands signed MoUs with among others China, Qatar, Cape Verde and Iran.
On Friday, the Dutch came from behind to defeat their historic rivals 2-4 in Hamburg in Euro 2020 qualifying, ending their hosts unbeaten record in Group C. In a seesaw game, where defending was in short supply, late goals from debutant substitute Donyell Malen and Georginio Wijnaldum completed a Dutch rearguard action after having fallen behind to an early goal from Serge Gnabry.
The Germans have nine points, three less than group leaders Northern Ireland, but three more than the Netherlands, who have a game in hand.
Contact the writer of this story, Samindra Kunti, at moc.l1713540229labto1713540229ofdlr1713540229owedi1713540229sni@o1713540229fni1713540229