Tragic news: Beloved coach of renown passes away at 82 - Dutchman is no more
In a sad turn of events, the Dutch footballing community is mourning the loss of one of its most esteemed figures. Leo Beenhakker, a former coach who made a significant impact on the sport, has passed away at the age of 82.
Beenhakker started his coaching career in the Netherlands at a young age, becoming the youngest head coach in Dutch professional football at just 26 years old. His first major assignment was with the Dutch national team, which he managed from 1985 to 1986 and again in 1990. Under his guidance, the team participated in the 1990 World Cup.
During the World Cup, the Dutch national team faced Germany in the round of 16. This match is remembered for a notable incident involving Frank Rijkaard, a player on the Dutch team, and Rudi Völler, a player on the German team. Rijkaard was involved in a spitting incident with Völler, an act that has since become infamous in football history. Despite the controversy, the match ended in a 1-2 defeat for the Dutch team.
Beenhakker's coaching career spanned an impressive 45 years. During this time, he achieved numerous successes. In the Netherlands, he won the league twice with Ajax Amsterdam and once with Feyenoord. He also won three consecutive league titles with Real Madrid from 1987 to 1989, earning him the title of a "legendary coach" by the Spanish club.
The information about Beenhakker's passing was confirmed by his family. Tributes have been pouring in from the footballing world, with many expressing their condolences and remembering Beenhakker's contributions to the sport.
Leo Beenhakker will be remembered not only for his coaching achievements but also for his impact on the game of football. His passing marks the end of an era in Dutch football, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him and were inspired by his work.
