Read surprised by Olympic stakes in Young Orange: 'Hearing it for the first time'

Netherlands U21 captain Read unaware that winning the Euro play-offs against Denmark also secures an Olympic Games spot; the top four at the Euros qualify for Los Angeles 2028.

Givairo Read, captain of the Netherlands U21 side, was surprised to learn that the upcoming Euro play-offs against Denmark carry Olympic implications. The winner of the two-legged tie (Friday 18:30 and Tuesday) qualifies for the European Championship, where the top four finishers earn spots at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Read admitted he had no idea about the Olympic stakes. "I hear it for the first time, I didn't actually know that," he said. The 21-year-old Feyenoord defender became enthusiastic once informed, saying: "Now that I know this, it's something to mention in the group. You want to be part of everything and win as many prizes as possible."

Coach Michael Reiziger was already aware of the Olympic opportunity and stressed its importance. "It's super important because you have to get through this window if you want to have a claim on the Olympic Games," he said. Netherlands finished second in their qualifying group behind Norway but secured a play-off spot. Reiziger expects a tough test against Denmark, who field several players from top European leagues.