Denzel Dumfries provided two assists and helped set up a third goal during the Netherlands' 6-0 victory against Greece.
Jose Mourinho has overseen a strong spell of performances for Real Madrid, leading to fierce battles for starting spots throughout the squad. At right-back in particular, the manager has to choose between three high-quality options.
Denzel Dumfries started the season as Mourinho’s first-choice right-back but has slipped down the order, with Federico Valverde taking over the role. However, the Dutchman has not let his club situation affect his international form, Yahoo Sports reported.
He reminded everyone of his outstanding attacking ability by playing a part in three goals in the Netherlands’ 6-0 victory. Throughout the match, the Madrid defender stayed on the pitch for the entirety of the 90 minutes, tallying two assists alongside his key contribution to a third score.
Operating in the 33rd minute, he delivered a header that set up Tijjani Reijnders to seal his hat-trick for the opening contribution. In the 59th minute, Dumfries struck again by sending a threatening cross into the box; the Greek goalkeeper managed only to palm the ball away, leaving Jurrien Timber free to score from the loose ball.
Only three minutes onward, the 30-year-old put together a brilliant solo run prior to laying off the ball for Donyell Malen to score the Netherlands’ seventh goal. Interestingly, Dumfries registered just 43 touches throughout the encounter but made excellent use of them.
He completed 24 of his 26 passes with 92% accuracy. Furthermore, he supplied three chances—featuring one major scoring opportunity—and touched the ball seven times within the opposing box.
The most interesting aspect of Dumfries’ performance was his constant presence in dangerous attacking positions. The defender accumulated 0.77 expected goals despite failing to score.
During his time with Real Madrid, Dumfries has frequently found himself positioned deep inside the rival penalty area, though this tendency previously left the squad vulnerable at the back. For Mourinho, Dumfries offers a very different dimension, and his crossing ability could add a potent weapon to Los Blancos’ attack.
With Federico Valverde and Trent Alexander-Arnold also competing for opportunities at right-back, Mourinho's management of Dumfries' playing time in upcoming games is uncertain.
