internationally, krol made his debut for the netherlands in 1969 against england, retiring from international football in 1983. he was a crucial component in the "total football" side of the 1970s. a versatile defender, he could play in any position along the back four or midfield. in the 1974 fifa world cup, in which the netherlands reached the final, krol primarily played at left-back. he created cruijff's goal against brazil and scored a 25-yard screamer against argentina.