Trending topics:
International

Curacao player gave up dream to represent the Netherlands to face Lionel Messi's Argentina

After representing the Netherlands' youth teams,Richairo Zivkovic committed to Curacao's senior national team ahead of its friendly game against Lionel Messi's Argentina.

Published by

By martín o’donnell

Richairo Zivkovic playing for the Netherlands U-21.
© Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty ImagesRichairo Zivkovic playing for the Netherlands U-21.

International soccer has changed. The eligibility criteria got softer, enabling players who already represented a country switch nationality.Richairo Zivkovic, for instance, had played for the Netherlands‘ youth teams before deciding to represent Curacao at the senior level.

Born in Assen on September 5, 1996, the Emmen striker had played for the Oranje’s U-19, U-20 and U-21 teams. Zivkovic, however, has always had the opportunity to play fortwo other national teams due to his family’s origins.

Serbia were one of them, but the Concacaf nationultimately convinced him to join their ranks. The timing is no coincidence, as Zivkovic admitted feeling attracted by the possibility of playing against Lionel Messi’s Argentina in this window.

Advertisement

Curacao player admits facing Messi was a factor in giving up on the Netherlands

“I used to have in mind an international career with the Oranje or Serbia, but I’m afraid that’s not feasible at this moment. Meanwhile, Curacao kept on asking. However, since I used to live abroad, I opted to rest during international breaks. But now that I’m once again living in the Netherlands, when Curacao approached again I thought: ‘You know what? I’ll just do it.’,” Zivkovic toldDagblad Noorden.

Advertisement

“Of course, that’s also a reason to accept the invitation,” he said in regard to Curacao’s upcoming friendly against Messi and company. Additionally, Zivkovic joked about claiming revenge on Argentina for their victory over the Netherlands in the 2022 World Cup.Curacao will play against the reigning world champions on Tuesday, March 28, at Estadio Madre de Ciudades in Santiago del Estero.

ALSO READ

Mavericks' Klay Thompson names one of the NBA's greatest shooters, and it's not Stephen Curry
NBA

Mavericks' Klay Thompson names one of the NBA's greatest shooters, and it's not Stephen Curry

Where to watch Chivas vs Atlas live for free in the USA: Liga MX Apertura 2024
Soccer

Where to watch Chivas vs Atlas live for free in the USA: Liga MX Apertura 2024

Report: Lionel Messi to return to Barcelona for emotional reunion with his former club
Soccer

Report: Lionel Messi to return to Barcelona for emotional reunion with his former club

NCAAF News: Buffaloes star Shedeur Sanders throws shade at NFL QBs Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels
Sin categoría

NCAAF News: Buffaloes star Shedeur Sanders throws shade at NFL QBs Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels

Better Collective Logo