Incredible but true: Andries Noppert from Joure will be the first goalkeeper of the Orange at the World Cup in Qatar

Noppert played less than a minute for the Dutch national team, but is on the highest podium between the posts. The choice for the keepers, with the elimination of Jasper Cillessen and Mark Flek for the final selection, was already the most discussed line in the run-up to the World Cup. Louis van Gaal took it a step further on Saturday by making Noppert his first goalkeeper in Qatar.

And yet, Van Gaal’s choice does not come completely out of the blue either. It is not for nothing that the national coach said last week, when announcing his World Cup selection, that Noppert is the only goalkeeper who is currently in good shape. Van Gaal also carefully looked into his cards during the second training session in Qatar. Noppert played in a small party form in a team with only basic players from Orange.

Remarkable career

However, Van Gaal sticks his neck out with his choice – and far too. Justin Bijlow (Feyenoord) and Remko Pasveer (Ajax) simply have more experience playing top matches. In fact, the matches that Noppert has played in a club for the time being are in no way comparable to the stage on which he will now act. His remarkable career has been outlined countless times in recent weeks, with reserve roles at clubs such as NAC Breda, Foggia, FC Dordrecht and Go Ahead Eagles.

Nevertheless, 28-year-old Jouster has left the best impression on Van Gaal and his technical staff in recent months at his club Heerenveen, and last week at Orange. And so it’s really going to happen. Andries Noppert is under the bar at a World Cup with the Dutch national team.