From Keuken Kampioen Division to World Cup Stars

The World Cup sees several players who began their professional journeys in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie, once called the Jupiler League from 2006 to 2018. Highlighted here are three international stars who rose to prominence through their short stays in this Dutch league. Ismaël Baouf almost secured a spot in Morocco's World Cup squad after an impressive season with Cambuur in the division. Although he dazzled at the U20 World Cup, leading Morocco to victory, and with his former youth coach Mohamed Ouahbi now the national team coach, Baouf narrowly missed out on selection. Ruben Providence, representing Haiti and formerly of Almere City, remains the only KKD player at the World Cup. Zidane Iqbal from Jong Utrecht is also acknowledged, though officially part of the FC Utrecht squad. Redouane Halhal, once of Helmond Sport, received a call-up instead of Baouf. Additionally, New Zealand's Michael Woud and Matthew Garbett, former players for Almere City and NAC Breda respectively, are featured in this narrative.

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