On two occasions, the Dutch led against Japan, they “gambled” twice, and the epilogue of it all was the division of points (2:2) in the derby of Group F at the World Cup. While the Samurai had plenty of reasons to be happy, the final outcome left a bitter taste in the mouth of the European football powerhouse.
After the disappointment, the Dutch coach came under the brunt of criticism Ronald Koeman. The dominant thinking in the Netherlands is that the coach of Oranja made a mistake with the changes when leading 2:1, when he introduced more defensive-oriented players into the game, such as, for example, a defender Nathan Akewho in the 81st minute took the place of the “engine” of the team in Ryan Gravenberch.
– I didn’t understand those changes. With that, Koeman called for the equalizer himself. I am fascinated by the ways in which he wants to kill the game – said the former Dutch national team player after the game Wim Kieftwhose words were followed by legedarni Raphael Van der Vaartreports Dutch Sportnieuws.
– It finally started to look right in the second half. Gakpo, Malen and Summerville played better and better. Then they took a 2:1 lead and then retreated. After that, Koeman suddenly reacts and starts playing very defensively. Then you create your own problems.
Koeman himself shared his impression after the draw.
– Am I satisfied? They can’t be if you’ve led twice. But given the opportunities and good times on both sides. because I think this was a top game, you can be satisfied with a draw. A chess suite? You could see that in them. Normally they play high pressing, but today they only did that when they were behind. Before that they didn’t, I think out of caution. They defend well, but despite that we scored two nice goals. That’s why it’s a shame that the result 2:2 came after a corner, which I believe someone touched the ball. But I can live with that.
