The 1998 World Cup, held in France, was a tournament that captured the hearts of many Dutch supporters. Under the guidance of coach Guus Hiddink and with a star-studded team featuring Dennis Bergkamp, Ruud van Nistelrooy, and Edwin van der Sar, Oranje entered the tournament with confidence. Expectations were high, especially after a successful qualification campaign in which the Netherlands convincingly defeated their opponents.

The group stage began with an impressive win against South Africa, followed by a thrilling match against South Korea. But the most memorable moment came in the round of 16 against Argentina. The match ended in a 2-1 victory for the Netherlands, with Dennis Bergkamp scoring a stunning goal—one of the most beautiful goals in World Cup history. This goal, described as a masterpiece, gave Oranje a boost of confidence, allowing them to advance to the quarterfinals.

In the quarterfinals, the Netherlands faced a strong team from Yugoslavia. After an intense match that ended 2-1, the Netherlands found themselves in the semifinals against Brazil, the reigning world champion. The semifinal was a true thriller, showcasing the Netherlands' tactical skills and resilience. Unfortunately, Brazil proved to be slightly stronger, and the tournament ended for the Netherlands with a 3-1 defeat.

Although the Netherlands did not reach the final, the journey to the semifinals was a source of pride for the country and its supporters. The tournament breathed new life into the Dutch national team and laid the foundation for future successes. The combination of talent, team spirit, and an unforgettable atmosphere made the 1998 World Cup a memorable event in Dutch football history.

Today, as Oranje prepares for the 2026 World Cup, the lessons and memories from the 1998 tournament remain relevant. The passion of the supporters, the strategy of the coach, and the talents on the field continue to inspire a new generation of footballers. It serves as a reminder that, regardless of the outcome, the journey and experience are of great importance for the Dutch national team and its dedicated fans.