One of the longest and biggest rivalries in the world of rugby will have another page turned on Saturday, when both will fight for the chance to reach the Final Qualification Tournament and stay in the race to reach Rugby World Cup 27 in Australia.
The Oranje and Diables Noirs have met 74 times since 1930, with the Belgians still in the lead with 40 wins against 30 from the Dutch.
However, in the last two challenges, Netherlands have beaten their neighbours and will certainly want to add a third consecutive victory to help them achieve a lifelong dream.
With plenty at stake, we had a sit-down with Christopher van Leeuwen and Jens Torfs to hear what they had to say about Saturday’s game.
Christopher van Leeuwen (Netherlands)
Christopher, it has been a long Journey for Netherlands to reach this stage. Do you feel optimistic about Saturday? How’s the game going to be won?
We feel confident in the way we have prepared, and we are looking forward to the occasion. The game will be decided by discipline and intensity paired with a strong set piece.
For the thousands of Dutch fans who will be on the stands, what words would you like to Share with them ahead of the game?
Our fans have been exceptional this season as they are year after year. We always look forward to playing in front of them in Amsterdam, and we hope to make them proud on Saturday.
How would you define your team in one word? And why?
One word will never do it justice, but if I had to, it would be “Resilient”. We have built a deep understanding of each other’s strengths, weaknesses and what works for us as a group. It pays tribute to the growth and togetherness within the group.
Jens Torfs (Belgium)
Jens, it has been a superb story for Belgium, who keeps showing that it can go big. How do you feel about Saturday? How can you beat the Netherlands?
We are feeling confident and determined for Saturday. The Netherlands has secured the 5th place spot in previous years, and we’ve lost to them before, so this game is also about redemption for us. In 2021, we lost at home against them and got relegated, which was a tough moment for Belgian rugby. Since then, we have worked incredibly hard to rebuild, improve, and find our game again.
Now, we are a stronger, more united team, and we believe we have what it takes to achieve our dream—securing that 5th place. Just like in history, when Belgium fought for its independence in 1830, we are once again standing against the Dutch, ready to prove our strength. This match is more than just rugby; it’s about pride, resilience, and showing that Belgium belongs at the top.
For the Belgian fans who will be in the stands, what words would you like to say to them? How important have they been for you all?
Our fans mean everything to us! They are always behind us, through every challenge. We want to make them proud and share this special moment.
Could you tell us what the Diables Noirs are all about?
Hungry.
Hungry to learn, hungry for more, hungry for new adventures. We’ve been through challenges, but instead of backing down, we’ve used them as fuel to push ourselves further. This team is always looking to improve, always striving for the next step. Saturday is another chance to show how far we’ve come and how much more we want.
The game goes live on Saturday the 15th of March at 12PM (UTC) and you can watch it on Rugby Europe TV.
By Francisco Isaac
Photos by Dennis van de Sande & Jurgen Kessler
