Aanvallen

The song 'Aanvallen' by Holland (NL) is a spirited anthem celebrating the triumphs and resilience of the Dutch national football team. The title, which translates to 'Attack,' sets the tone for the song's aggressive and determined spirit. The lyrics recount various matches, highlighting the ups and downs of the team's journey, ultimately leading to a glorious victory.

The song begins by acknowledging a setback in the first match, urging listeners to forget about it quickly. This reflects a common sports mentality of moving past failures and focusing on future opportunities. The mention of a match against England where the Dutch team delivered a significant blow ('Wat kregen die lui een douw') showcases their ability to bounce back and dominate their opponents.

As the song progresses, it narrates the challenges faced against Ireland, a team described as 'vreselijk taai' (terribly tough). Despite the difficulties, the Dutch team manages to turn the game around in the final ten minutes, demonstrating their perseverance and fighting spirit. The reference to the match against Germany is particularly poignant, as it mentions erasing the shame of 1974, likely alluding to the World Cup final loss that year. This victory is portrayed as a moment of redemption and national pride.

The climax of the song is the final match, where the Dutch team secures the gold, bringing immense joy and pride to the nation. The repeated phrase 'Wat zijn die [opponent] stil' (How quiet are those [opponent]) emphasizes the silencing of their adversaries and the dominance of the Dutch team. Overall, 'Aanvallen' is a rousing tribute to the Dutch football team's resilience, skill, and ultimate triumph on the international stage.