Netherlands eliminated from World Cup
The Netherlands have been eliminated from the World Cup at the Round of 32 stage, following a penalty shootout defeat to Morocco. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with Morocco ultimately prevailing 3-2 in the shootout. The Dutch side had initially taken the lead in the contest held in Monterrey.
Cody Gakpo opened the scoring for the Netherlands in the 72nd minute. He capitalised on a loose ball in the area during a quick forward break, netting an emotional goal that gave his team the initial advantage. Gakpo was part of a starting lineup that also featured his club teammates Virgil van Dijk and Ryan Gravenberch.
However, Morocco managed to level the score in the first minute of added time at the end of the match. Issa Diop scored with a header, forcing the game into extra time and subsequently a penalty shootout. The African nation then secured their advancement into the last 16 by winning the shootout.
Koeman reflects on tactical choices and future
Following the defeat, Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman indicated he would consider his future with the national team. His three-and-a-half-year tenure, which marks his second stint in charge, is now under review after the unexpected exit from the tournament. Koeman stated that he had not yet resigned and would reflect on his position, potentially reaching a conclusion by the following morning.
Koeman faced scrutiny for his tactical approach during the match, particularly for deploying a five-man defensive line. Critics suggested the team appeared content to play on the counter-attack for significant periods. Despite the criticism, Koeman defended his strategy, asserting that he would make the same choices again if given the opportunity. He argued that his team conceded fewer chances against a stronger opponent compared to their group stage matches against Sweden and Tunisia.
The manager acknowledged that as the Dutch coach, he would inevitably be criticised for choosing five defenders, especially after the equaliser was scored. He maintained his belief in his decisions, stating, “If I had to do it again I’d do it all the same way.”
Morocco’s coach on adapting to Dutch tactics
Mohamed Ouahbi, the head coach for Morocco, admitted that his team was surprised by the Netherlands’ defensive formation. He noted that the Dutch typically do not play with such a low block, requiring his side to adapt their strategy during the game. Ouahbi interpreted the Netherlands’ defensive posture as a sign of respect for his team’s capabilities.
Ouahbi’s team is now set to face Canada in their next match. There is growing anticipation that Morocco could potentially meet France in the quarter-finals, a team that defeated them in the semi-finals of the Qatar 2022 World Cup. The coach emphasised that while talk is easy, performance on the pitch is what truly matters.
The experience from the World Cup in Qatar has reportedly shifted the mentality of the Moroccan team. Ouahbi believes that if his team plays to their full potential, they are unstoppable, but any missteps could lead to their elimination. Morocco aims to at least match their achievement from four years prior, when they secured a fourth-place finish in the tournament.
The Netherlands‘ defeat came despite Cody Gakpo‘s goal in the 72nd minute of the match.
Source: liverpoolfc.com
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