As Dani Hagebeuk’s home city, Amsterdam was the perfect place to book his second Grand Final appearance in as many years. The Dutchman won his decisive tie 6-1 over two legs in front of a home crowd to secure qualification for the Grand Final in London. By the time he finished competing in the play-offs, he was one of the favourites for the FIFA eWorld Cup title in 2018.

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In brief

Dani has been playing EA Sports FIFA since FIFA 12 and decided to turn professional when FIFA 16 was released. It was not long before Ajax signed him, and he has since won the club two eDivisie titles in the Netherlands.

The confident Grand Finalist has the title firmly in his sights: “I have only one goal – to become world champion.”

Road to the Grand Final

The Ajax player impressed at last year’s Grand Final and qualified for the 2018 event after winning his domestic title and delivering another outstanding performance at the play-offs in his home city of Amsterdam.

His American team-mate ‘Joey’ narrowly missed out on a place in the Grand Final in the deciding match.

His chances at the Grand Final

With his preferred 4-2-2-2 formation, ‘Dani’ is solid in defence and repeatedly creates chances going forward. Hagebeuk’s considerable confidence and experience means he does not get distracted by a large audience and is accustomed to the pressure of numerous domestic and international tournaments.

His views on the FIFA eWorld Cup Grand Final:

Strongest opponent in his group: "I’m looking forward to playing against every single one of them.”

Best attacking player: 'Gorilla'

Best defensive player: 'nicolas99fc'

Most underrated player: "They’re the world’s best players. None of them are underrated.”

Motto: "I don’t have one.“

Who will win the Grand Final? "Hopefully me, otherwise 'nicolas99fc'“