Dean Huijsen Reflects on World Cup Omission After Strong Spain Comeback in 4-1 Win Over Croatia
Dean Huijsen Talks About World Cup Disappointment and Spain Return
Dean Huijsen has spoken out about the sadness of missing the 2026 World Cup after making a strong return to the Spanish national team. The defender played a full match as Spain dominated Croatia 4-1 in the UEFA Nations League, showing why he remains an important figure for La Roja.
Young Defender Makes a Mark in Spain’s Victory
Huijsen was back in the starting lineup for Spain’s first home game since winning the World Cup. Alongside his Real Madrid teammate Marc Cucurella, he delivered a solid 90-minute performance at the Sánchez-Pizjuán stadium that helped secure three points in Group A3. This confident display came after the tough disappointment of being left out of the World Cup squad earlier in the summer.
Personal Struggles Shared
When asked about the snub, Huijsen admitted it was a hard moment for both him and his family. Speaking to reporters, he said:
"It was quite tough for me. In the end, it was a very sad moment for me and my family. The important thing is to be back, and we have to focus on the positives."
Spain’s Unusual World Cup Squad and Huijsen’s Recall
The decision by coach De la Fuente to exclude Huijsen created controversy since it marked the first time in 92 years that no Real Madrid player was included in Spain’s World Cup team. Instead, De la Fuente selected defenders like Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, Eric García, and Marc Pubill. Huijsen’s immediate return to the starting eleven confirms that the coach still sees him as a key part of Spain’s future.
Unbeaten Streak Continues and Group Lead Strengthened
Spain extended their unbeaten run to 40 games with this commanding win over Croatia, putting them three points clear at the top of Group A3 ahead of England and Croatia. They will aim to build on this momentum when facing Czechia next. For Huijsen, the match was a chance to stake his claim amid fierce competition for central defense spots.
- Match: Spain 4 - 1 Croatia
- Competition: UEFA Nations League A, Group A3
- Location: Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium
- Huijsen's role: Full 90 minutes in defense
- Spain’s unbeaten run: 40 matches
- Group standing: 1st place, 3 points ahead of England and Croatia
