According to a report by Madrid Universal on Friday, November 13, 2026, Real Madrid centre-back Dean Huijsen impressed for Spain in their 2-1 victory over the Czech Republic, underlining his growing importance at club and international level.

The 21-year-old was influential in possession and dependable defensively, showcasing the composure, technical quality, passing range and awareness that have established him as a promising defender. His performance will please Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho ahead of the return of club football.

Huijsen has made encouraging progress under Mourinho, becoming one of the Portuguese coach's trusted options in central defence. He has reportedly developed an effective partnership with Ibrahima Konate, whose physical strength complements the Spaniard's calmness and ability to play out from the back. Huijsen carried that form into national-team duty, reminding observers of the qualities he brings to the side.

Statistics published by Madrid Zone illustrated his contribution against the Czech Republic. Huijsen recorded 116 touches, more than any other player, demonstrating how frequently Spain relied on him to circulate possession and build attacks from defence. He completed 98 of his 103 attempted passes, achieving an impressive accuracy rate of 95 per cent.

His distribution extended beyond safe passes across the backline. The centre-back completed 12 passes into the final third and found a teammate with five of his eight attempted long balls. He also created one chance, showing his ability to support Spain's attacking play while retaining his defensive responsibilities.

Out of possession, Huijsen contributed nine defensive actions: five clearances, two interceptions and two successful tackles. He added five ball recoveries, helping Spain regain possession and limit the opportunities available to their opponents. The figures reflect a performance built on defensive discipline and confidence in possession.

His qualities are also valuable in Spain's defensive partnership with Barcelona youngster Pau Cubarsi. Both centre-backs are comfortable receiving the ball under pressure and capable of progressing play with accurate forward passes. Their technical ability gives Spain another route through opposition pressure, allowing the team to initiate attacks from deep rather than relying exclusively on its midfielders.

At club level, the balance with Konate is different but similarly useful. The French defender provides strength and aggression, while Huijsen offers composure, game-reading ability and passing quality. Together, they give Mourinho a combination that can help Real Madrid defend firmly while remaining comfortable in possession.

There is, however, room for improvement. Huijsen won only one of his four attempted aerial duels against the Czech Republic, highlighting an area requiring further development. Becoming more effective in the air could make him an even more complete defender.

His latest international display represents another positive step in his development. At 21, Huijsen is demonstrating the technical and defensive qualities needed to become an important figure for Real Madrid and Spain. Maintaining consistency while addressing weaker areas will be central to his continued progress.

His influence stood out because he combined frequent involvement with accurate execution, helping Spain retain control and progress the ball without neglecting defensive duties with confidence.