Ferran Torres is already looking forward to the return match against the Netherlands in the Nations League quarter-finals. Oranje will visit Mestalla in Valencia for the game. For the Barcelona forward, it will be a special encounter.
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Ferran Torres is eagerly anticipating the return match against the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals.
The highly anticipated clash will take place at Mestalla in Valencia on March 26 at 20:45, a stadium deeply significant to the Spanish winger. Before that decisive encounter, the 25-year-old Torres and his Spanish teammates will first travel to Rotterdam to face the Netherlands in the first leg at De Kuip on March 21 at 20:45.
For Torres, the upcoming fixture in Valencia holds special significance beyond the competitive stakes of the Nations League. In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, the 48-time Spanish international shared his excitement about playing in his hometown, where he grew up and developed as a footballer. Born in Foios, a small town near Valencia, Torres joined the city's club academy as a child and progressed through the ranks to make his professional debut for Valencia CF.
"I think this will be one of the most beautiful moments of my career: returning to my home with the national team," said Torres, who earlier this season showcased his goal-scoring ability with a hat-trick for Barcelona in their La Liga match against Valencia at Mestalla. "This stadium is where I developed, where I experienced my first great moments as a footballer, and where I have so many memories. Playing there in a match of this magnitude, representing Spain, will be a special feeling."
Beyond the personal nostalgia, Torres also wants to use this opportunity to bring some joy to the people of Valencia, a city that has endured difficult times recently. "I hope we can give the people in and around Valencia a victory after all the hardships they have faced. It's time to give them something to celebrate, to bring them some happiness after all they have been through."
The Spanish forward was referring to the devastating floods that struck Valencia and its surrounding areas in October last year. Heavy rains caused severe flooding, leading to property damage, displacement, and economic losses for many families in the region. "It was a very tough period for many people, and I did my best at the time to contribute and help those affected. But football also has the power to lift spirits, and I hope we can provide a moment of joy with our performance at Mestalla."
Spain and the Netherlands have a long and storied history in international football, with both teams having faced each other on numerous occasions in major tournaments. One of the most famous encounters between the two nations was the 2010 FIFA World Cup final in South Africa, where Spain triumphed 1-0 thanks to a goal from Andrés Iniesta in extra time, securing their first-ever World Cup title.
Reflecting on the historical encounters, Torres noted an interesting piece of information he had heard from Spain's head coach, Luis de la Fuente. "I heard from the coach that Spain has never won a home match against the Netherlands, so it would be great if we could break that streak right here in Valencia, with all the people of Valencia behind us. We hope to offer them something special."
However, there appears to be some confusion regarding Spain’s home record against the Dutch. While Spain has struggled against the Netherlands in recent years, they have actually managed to defeat them three times at home in the past, although these victories occurred several decades ago. The most recent Spanish victory on home soil against the Netherlands dates back to 1983, when they won 1-0 in a European Championship qualifier in Seville. Before that, Spain also secured friendly victories in 1980 with a 1-0 win in Vigo and in 1957 with a commanding 5-1 victory in Madrid. Despite this history, the Netherlands have generally been a difficult opponent for Spain, particularly in recent times. In their last competitive meeting, during the 2014 FIFA World Cup group stage, the Dutch inflicted a humiliating 5-1 defeat on Spain, a match that marked the beginning of the end for Spain’s golden generation that had dominated world football from 2008 to 2012. Since then, encounters between the two sides have remained highly competitive, with both teams eager to assert their dominance on the international stage.
For Spain, progressing in the Nations League is an important objective, as they continue their pursuit of international silverware under Luis de la Fuente. The Spanish squad is currently in a transitional phase, blending experienced players with promising young talents, and Torres is expected to play a key role in their attacking setup. The Netherlands, under head coach Ronald Koeman, are also aiming to make a statement in the competition. Oranje will be determined to overcome Spain and advance to the semi-finals, adding another chapter to their rich footballing history. With both teams boasting high-quality players and tactical depth, the quarter-final tie promises to be an intense and closely contested battle.
For Torres, the upcoming matches are not just about qualification but about making a lasting impact in his home city. "Valencia has always supported me, and I want to give something back. Hopefully, we can achieve something special at Mestalla." As the countdown to the quarter-finals continues, all eyes will be on Torres and his Spanish teammates as they prepare to face a formidable Dutch side. With emotions running high and a place in the Nations League semi-finals at stake, football fans can expect two thrilling encounters between two of Europe's footballing powerhouses.
Updated: 10:15, 20 Mar 2025
