Johan Neeskens rightfully deserves a place alongside Johan Cruyff in the pantheon of Total Football. While Cruyff is often regarded as the philosophical beacon of Dutch football, Neeskens played a crucial role in shaping the game as well. During the Netherlands' 2-0 victory over Brazil in the second group phase of the 1974 World Cup, Cruyff described the match as the purest representation of Total Football. In a twist of fate, Neeskens was knocked out during this iconic game, struck by a punch from Brazil’s captain, Marinho Peres. This incident encapsulated Neeskens' character; he was the tough, physical presence in the midfield, known for his hard-edged style and striking blue eyes. While the Dutch team was renowned for its sublime skill, Neeskens was the one who could hold his own in a physical contest, embodying the gritty side of their play. In that memorable match, Neeskens also netted the opening goal. He received the ball just inside the Brazilian half, passed it to Cruyff on the right, and then made a swift run to finish with a first-time shot. Although there was a hint of luck in the way the ball looped over goalkeeper Émerson Leão, the brilliance of the goal lay in Neeskens' timing and awareness. He anticipated Cruyff's pass, positioned himself perfectly in front of defender Luís Pereira, and executed the shot with precision. In a game that was both brilliant and brutal, it was Neeskens, the most fiercely brilliant player on the pitch, who truly stood out.