haarlemsdagbladJun 11, 2026, 03:00

AZ defender Mateo Chávez starts World Cup on holy ground in Mexico: 'Opponents feel the special powers here'

AZ defender Mateo Chávez shares his perspective on the upcoming 2026 World Cup opening match at the historic Aztec Stadium in Mexico City. The stadium is celebrated for its rich football history, including legendary moments from players like Maradona and Beckenbauer, and its intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams.

Culture Netherlands World

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Based on reporting by haarlemsdagblad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Young, armed, and ruthless: Scandinavian teenagers hired to carry out hits in Amsterdam and elsewhere

Scandinavian teenagers are being recruited by the Foxtrot criminal network to carry out contract killings in the Netherlands. Authorities have successfully intercepted planned attacks in Amsterdam and Haarlem linked to gang leader Rawa Majid.

Atalanta fan arrested for ACAB shirt: "We will never accept that"

An Atalanta football fan was arrested in Amsterdam yesterday for wearing a shirt with the slogan ACAB, which refers to anti-police sentiments. The supporter was detained for several hours, causing him to miss the scheduled match against Ajax. Despite a heavy police presence throughout the city to monitor thousands of visiting fans, no other major incidents or arrests were reported.

Sea lions finally leave Artis after more than 100 years

After more than a century, Artis Zoo in Amsterdam has permanently closed its sea lion exhibit following concerns regarding the size of the enclosure. The three remaining sea lions have been relocated to a larger facility in Singapore, while their former habitat will be repurposed for the zoo's penguins.

After 2.5 years of investigation, the bodies washed ashore on Texel finally identified

The remains of two Afghan refugees found on the beach of Texel have been identified after a long forensic investigation into a fatal boat sinking in the English Channel. Investigations have revealed that the Netherlands is increasingly serving as a key logistical hub for the smuggling operations that provide dangerous, substandard equipment for these refugee crossings.

European football night for AZ in Armenia • Ajax against Atalanta Bergamo

Dutch football clubs AZ and Ajax are playing important European matches this evening. AZ travels to Armenia to face Ararat Armenia, while Ajax welcomes Atalanta Bergamo to the Johan Cruijff Arena in Amsterdam.