Ronald Koeman defends negative tactics as the Netherlands crash out of the World Cup | OneFootball

The Netherlands have fallen at the first knock out hurdle of the 2026 World Cup. Morocco dominated the game from start to finish but were almost made to rue missing a plethora of chances when Cody Gakpo grabbed an emotional smash and grab chance on the break. However, the Atlas Lions got more than they deserved with a late equaliser, before going on to win via the penalty shoot out.

Ronald Koeman has been criticised already this tournament for negative tactics against Japan, and he once again put these to use against Morocco. The Dutch allowed the Atlas Lions to dominate the ball and the chances, with the Netherlands looking to hit their African opponents on the break. Despite the defeat, and much to the frustration of the Netherlands fans, Koeman doubled down on his tactics after the game. Speaking to the media, the head coach said ‘It is perfectly fine for everyone to have their own opinion. But if I had to do it over, I would have done the same thing‘.

Koeman also responded in frustration when his decision to play a back five was questioned, pointing out that many had been asking for him to do just that and now that they had lost it is being used against him. Many expect that this is the end of the road for Koeman and the Dutch national team, but at the end of his press conference he did not confirm whether he would be stepping aside following the defeat.

GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson