The Netherlands narrowly defeated Uzbekistan in their final warm-up match before the FIFA World Cup. After the match, Netherlands captain Van Dijk spoke about the game and particularly addressed Timber's absence from the FIFA World Cup due to injury.
News of Timber's injury ruling him out of the FIFA World Cup was confirmed. Regarding this, Van Dijk told NOS, "It's very unfortunate for him, and of course, for us too. He's had a fantastic season, already one of the best players in the Premier League. I know he was really looking forward to this FIFA World Cup, so it's truly a shame he can't participate. But there's nothing we can do, we have to move on, and we will."
Van Dijk was also asked if he might play as a right-sided center-back. The Netherlands captain was clearly reluctant.
Van Dijk stated, "If the coach asks me to play that position, of course I will, because the coach decides. But I've been playing as a left-sided center-back for 12 years, and I feel very comfortable in that position."
Speaking about the match against Uzbekistan, Van Dijk said, "It's good to get playing time in this environment, so we can adapt to the conditions for Sunday's match in advance. In the first half, we created some very good chances, just like last week in Rotterdam, we did it again. After a while, we had a more difficult period, and we were a bit careless with possession, always trying to push the attack too quickly. But at times like that, it's actually better to control the ball, which also helps conserve energy. However, in the end, we won the match, and that's the most important thing."
The victory was not without its regrets, as Verbruggen left the field due to injury and Til received a red card. Regarding Verbruggen's injury and Til's red card, Van Dijk said, "I'm not yet sure if that red card was justified, nor what impact it will have."