The Netherlands' journey at the 1974 World Cup remains the definitive showcase of Total Football. Led by Johan Cruyff and managed by Rinus Michels, the Oranje dominated nearly every opponent before falling just short in the final. First Group Stage The Dutch topped Group 3, conceding only a single goal (an own goal) across the three matches. Netherlands 2–0 Uruguay: Johnny Rep 7' 86' Netherlands 0–0 Sweden Netherlands 4–1 Bulgaria: Johan Neeskens 5' (pen) 44' (pen), Johnny Rep 71', Theo de Jong 88' Second Group Stage In this era, the second round was another group stage. The Netherlands were placed in Group A and produced some of the most clinical football in tournament history, winning all three matches without conceding a goal. Netherlands 4–0 Argentina: Johan Cruyff 11' 90', Johnny Rep 25', Ruud Krol 73' Netherlands 2–0 East Germany: Johan Neeskens 7', Rob Rensenbrink 59' Netherlands 2–0 Brazil: Johan Neeskens 50', Johan Cruyff 65' The Final Played on July 7, 1974, at the Oly...