Wonderstrike from Aston Villa's Maatsen stands out in Dutch loss | OneFootball

The Aston Villa defender, Ian Maatsen, was initially part of the younger Dutch side during this international week. He found himself with the senior side instead, as he participated in the Nations League matchup of the week between the Netherlands and Spain. Jurriën Timber missed out due to an illness, and Jorrel Hato missed the fixture due to a red card. At 23 years old, the left-back had an excellent opportunity presented in front of him and was sure to make the most of it.

It's not often that events unfold in a way in which there is an immediate payoff. From preparing for this year's Under-21 Euros to now facing one of the top squads in the world, Maatsen went through a drastic and sudden shift in gears.

Going forward in the attack while dealing with a high-end Spanish attack, the Villa defender had a great showing over the weekend. Managers are often left with hard turnaround choices when players become available for one reason or another. When given the chance, however, it's up to someone who otherwise wouldn't get the opportunity to make an impression.

There are a lot of considerations for managers making their international lineup selections. A lot of times, someone is seen as a clear and obvious snub, worthy of inclusion on the roster. On the outside looking in, Maatsen was given a senior team lifeline for 2025.

Goal to remember for Aston Villa man

At the 79th minute, the AVFC LB smashed his attempt in the top right corner, beating Unai Simón to bring the game level at 2-2. These types of moments can often stick out. In a close decision for future rosters, a highlight could potentially prove to be the difference between two good players with competent resumes.

Although Holland would go on to lose in the ensuing penalty shootout, Maatsen had a day to remember. Ronald Koeman has plenty of options to turn to throughout multiple positions for the Oranje. The Aston Villa defender maybe solidified his position, or at the very least, made the future choice much more difficult to make.