Wout Weghorst found the net for FC Twente in their 2-2 draw against FC Groningen, but his theatrical celebration sparked sharp criticism from veteran journalist Valentijn Driessen. The striker's post-goal antics and subsequent clash with Etienne Vaessen drew particular scrutiny after what was otherwise a well-executed finish.
Vaessen took aim at Weghorst's extended celebration, telling RTV Noord that the forward's elaborate display crossed a line. "You can believe what you want and celebrate how you want, but don't do it for so long," the Groningen player said. The defender specifically referenced Weghorst's prolonged prayer-like gesture, suggesting such moments belonged in a church rather than on the pitch. Vaessen called for a more measured response: score, acknowledge the moment briefly, and move on.
Driessen's Scathing Assessment
Driessen acknowledged the quality of Weghorst's equaliser, which came shortly before half-time and levelled the match at 2-2. "A very nice goal," he conceded. However, the journalist's admiration evaporated when addressing the striker's behaviour afterwards. "But also terribly irritating again. These are the two most irritating little men on the Dutch pitches," Driessen said, lumping both Weghorst and Vaessen together as serial offenders in Eredivisie matches.
The tension between the pair escalated in Groningen's penalty area when the ball became loose. Driessen noted that Weghorst initiated contact with a shove before retreating, justifying the physical contest as part of natural play. Yet the journalist remained unimpressed by what followed, describing Weghorst's celebration as lacking composure: "You just think: my God, boy. Just walk back and act normal."
Weghorst's brace against Groningen marked his second goal in the VriendenLoterij Eredivisie this season, supplementing his two European strikes for the Enschede-based club. As Twente continue their campaign, questions linger over whether their attacking talent can channel focus away from theatrics and toward consistency on Dutch football's biggest stages.
