Kees Smit will not play for Jong Oranje in their European Championship play-off against Denmark because he is staying in club rehabilitation, De Telegraaf reported.
Fixture Determines UEFA Under-21 Euro Qualification and Olympic Slots
- Stakes and Futures: The two-leg fixture directly determines qualification for the UEFA Under-21 Euro and indirectly decides European slots for the Olympic football tournament.
Squad Depth Hit Hard Ahead of Denmark Clash
Michael Reiziger faces a severe selection crisis as Jong Oranje prepares for the decisive double-header against Denmark. AZ midfielder Kees Smit, who recently made his comeback from injury, opted against reporting to the squad in Zeist. De Telegraaf reported that Smit stated after the 4-3 victory over FC Groningen, I am still in the build-up phase. The decision was made in good consultation.
AZ winger Ayoub Oufkir has also dropped out after previously making his debut for Jong Oranje, instead choosing to commit to Morocco’s senior national team. Furthermore, Fortuna Sittard striker Lequincio Zeefuik remains unavailable due to an ongoing injury.
The Road to the European Championship and Olympics
Jong Oranje travels to face Denmark in the away leg this coming Friday with a 18.30 kick-off. The return leg takes place next week Tuesday in Almere, also starting at 18.30. Victory across the two matches secures a spot at the upcoming UEFA Under-21 European Championship hosted in Albania and Serbia.
The European tickets for the Olympic football tournament are distributed directly during the final tournament next summer.
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