Niet voor de goal is a Dutch phrase that translates to “not for the goal” in English. In the context of sports, particularly football (soccer), this phrase is often used to describe a player who is not focused on scoring goals or is not playing in an attacking position.
In football, the goal is the ultimate objective of the game – to score more goals than the opposing team. For attackers, scoring goals is their primary job and they are often judged on their goal-scoring abilities. However, not every player on the field is expected to score goals. Defenders, midfielders, and even goalkeepers have different roles and responsibilities that contribute to the overall success of the team.
When a player is described as “niet voor de goal,” it means that they are not primarily focused on scoring goals. This could be because they play in a defensive or midfield position, where their main duties are to prevent goals or facilitate the team’s attacking play. It could also refer to a player who is more focused on other aspects of the game, such as passing, tackling, or providing assists.
While goal-scoring is often seen as the most glamorous aspect of football, it is important to recognize and appreciate the contributions of players who are not solely focused on finding the back of the net. A well-balanced team needs players who can fulfill a variety of roles and work together to achieve success on the field.
So, the next time you hear someone described as “niet voor de goal,” remember that their impact on the game may go beyond scoring goals and that every player has a unique role to play in the beautiful game of football.