Sherida Spitse and Merel van Dongen are under fire because of a remarkable video

Sherida Spitse and Merel van Dongen are under fire from critics in New Zealand after a video emerged in which they appear to be imitating the Haka. According to the KNVB, the storm of criticism is unjustified: the images were misinterpreted.

In the now-deleted video, you can see Spitse and Van Dongen doing a move reminiscent of the Haka, a ceremonial dance of the Maori, New Zealand’s original inhabitants. Also, someone seems to be shouting “Haka, New Zealand”. Imitating and mocking the Haka is considered insulting in New Zealand. There is therefore a lot of criticism of the players in the country, which organizes the World Cup with Australia.

A KNVB spokesperson leaves The Telegraph know that the players were doing an exercise aimed at “channeling your inner power and which in no way referenced or imitated the Haka”. “The Haka is well known in sport and is admired by all professional athletes. The Dutch women’s team is no exception to this,” it seems.

The Orange Lionesses will start the World Cup next week with a game against Portugal. National coach Andries Jonker’s side will also meet USA and Vietnam in the group stage.

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