Edson Braafheid was a Dutch left-back with good physical strength, speed and versatility, who had a career marked by spells at several European clubs and participation in the Dutch national team, including the runner-up campaign at the 2010 World Cup. Discovered by FC Utrecht, he gained notoriety at FC Twente, where he established himself as a starter and drew attention for his physical vigor, great stamina for offensive support, intense marking and good defensive recovery — qualities that made him one of the most promising full-backs in Dutch football in the second half of the 2000s.

His development at Twente took him to Bayern Munich in 2009, but competition at the German giants prevented him from establishing himself as a regular player, which led to him being loaned out, including a spell at Celtic in Scotland. Despite his difficulties in establishing himself in the big football clubs, Braafheid maintained his prestige with the Dutch national team, being called up by Bert van Marwijk for the 2010 World Cup, where he took part in the final against Spain, coming on as a substitute in the second half of extra time.

Throughout his career, he also played for clubs such as 1899 Hoffenheim, Lazio, FC Twente, FC Utrecht (in a second spell for both dutch clubs), and even smaller teams in the United States and Germany, always maintaining his physical dedication as one of his main virtues, even though technical irregularities limited his permanence at the highest levels.

Other Links:
From Soccer City to Palm Beach Stars: Is Edson Braafheid the most obscure World Cup finalist ever? | Goal.com | English
Bayern bring in Twente's Braafheid | UEFA.com | English

Videos:
HIGHLIGHTS Edson Braafheid
Edson Braafheid 2010
Samenvatting acties Edson Braafheid