If Van Hecke does start, his task will be more than simply filling a vacant place. He would need to stay composed under pressure, defend space intelligently and provide a reliable first pass beside one of international football’s most experienced centre-backs.
His development at Brighton has been marked by calm defending and growing authority. Those qualities could prove valuable in a tournament opener, where one uncertain decision can change the rhythm of an entire match.
“É um sentimento enorme de orgulho. É fantástico estar aqui,” Van Hecke said, describing the feeling of reaching the World Cup.
The possible selection also revives a striking family connection. The update recalls that Van Hecke’s uncle, Jan Poortvliet, earned his opportunity with the Netherlands at the 1978 World Cup after an injury opened a place in the squad.
Poortvliet went on to perform in several defensive roles during that tournament and later coached his nephew at under-17 level. He has praised Van Hecke’s determination, focus and ability to recover from a disappointing performance without losing direction.
Van Hecke reportedly expects Japan to pose a difficult challenge, pointing to the team’s ability to compete with elite opposition. Their movement, discipline and quick transitions could test the Netherlands’ defensive structure from the opening whistle.
The next storyline is whether Van Hecke can turn an injury-enforced opportunity into the beginning of his own international chapter - while carrying, but not being defined by, the family history behind him.