Sherida Spitse Bids Farewell to Netherlands Career with Win Over Canada

Netherlands legend Sherida Spitse plays final game, ends 19-year career

Netherlands legend Sherida Spitse plays her final game for Oranje, ending a 19-year career with a win over Canada.

“I hope you will continue to support this fantastic team, even though I am no longer there...”

Netherlands football icon Sherida Spitse bowed out on a high note, playing her 248th and final game for the Orange Lionesses in Tuesday's 1-0 friendly win over Canada in Nijmegen.

Spitse, a highly decorated midfielder and former Netherlands captain, had announced her retirement from football just two weeks prior to the match, making her sendoff a memorable one.

Veteran midfielder Sherida Spitse bid farewell to the Netherlands national team with a 248th and final appearance against Canada, a team they faced in the 2019 World Cup. Spitse, who made her debut for Oranje in 2006 at just 16 years old, ended her illustrious career with a memorable milestone.

The match marked a poignant moment for Spitse, who had given 18 years of service to the Dutch national team. Her dedication and commitment to the sport have been an inspiration to many, and her legacy will undoubtedly be celebrated for years to come.

Sherida Spitse's remarkable 19-year Netherlands career was highlighted by a triumphant 2017 European Championship win, the country's first major title. Spitse played a pivotal role in the team's success and beyond, earning numerous accolades and setting multiple records.

Iconic. 🟠#NothingLikeOranje pic.twitter.com/TTk2SabDkE

— OranjeLeeuwinnen (@oranjevrouwen) October 28, 2025

Spitse versatility on the field allowed her to excel in multiple positions, including defender and midfielder. She became the Netherlands' most capped player in 2019, surpassing Annemieke Kiesel-Griffioen's record with 157 appearances. Spitse also scored 46 goals for Oranje and holds the record for most tournament appearances with 32 games across seven major competitions.

Sherida Spitse's remarkable 19-year Netherlands career was highlighted by a triumphant 2017 European Championship win, the country's first major title. Spitse played a pivotal role in the team's success and beyond, earning numerous accolades and setting multiple records.

Spitse's versatility on the field allowed her to excel in multiple positions, including defender and midfielder. She became the Netherlands' most capped player in 2019, surpassing Annemieke Kiesel-Griffioen's record with 157 appearances. Spitse also scored 46 goals for Oranje and holds the record for most tournament appearances with 32 games across seven major competitions.

Win secured on this special night! 🔒🤩#NothingLikeOranje #NEDCAN pic.twitter.com/NDEiT8i9zl

— OranjeLeeuwinnen (@oranjevrouwen) October 28, 2025

Netherlands captain Sherida Spitse bid a memorable farewell to the fans, receiving a standing ovation in the 49th minute of the match against Canada. Manager Arjan Veurink substituted her out for Chelsea talent Veerle Buurman, allowing the veteran to leave the field with a guard of honour.

Sherida Spitse Announces Retirement from International Football

She expressed her gratitude to the fans, saying, Spitse concluded; “Dear Oranje fans, this was my last match. Fortunately, it ended in victory, which is always lovely. I want to thank you all so much for all these years, from 2006 with 100 people to 35,000 in the stadium. I am very grateful to you all. I have always felt that connection with you.”

“I hope you will continue to support this fantastic team, even though I am no longer there. You won't hear that endless shouting anymore. But I will continue to shout for these girls from the couch. I love you all. Thank you, friends and fans - I love you!”

Aston Villa's Lynn Wilms scored the decisive goal in the 28th minute, tapping in a brilliant cross from Esmee Brugts, as Villa secured a 1-0 victory.