Dutch press criticise Memphis after subdued 2026 World Cup opener | OneFootball

According to Meu Timao, Memphis Depay’s cameo in the Netherlands’ 2-2 draw with Japan in Dallas at the 2026 World Cup drew sharp media criticism.

The Corinthians forward was introduced by Ronald Koeman 25 minutes into the second half, with Japan levelling late on.

In the Netherlands, Volkskrant and Algemeen Dagblad highlighted the lack of impact from the bench, naming Memphis among those who failed to change the game and calling him lazy. Volkskrant’s Willem Vissers labelled the substitutions a total disaster and described the No 10’s display as apathetic and laboured.

VoetbalPrimeur said he barely featured after coming on and cast him as emblematic of the team’s late dip, noting minimal involvement and an inability to help control the game at 2-1.

Telegraaf, which had tracked his recovery and underlined Koeman’s faith, focused on tactics after the draw and judged he still lacks full match rhythm.

Reuters said Depay made little impact and noted he is regaining fitness after more than two months out injured. Spain’s Marca added that the Netherlands lost control after Koeman’s changes and that Memphis could not provide the expected attacking spark while building rhythm.

The Netherlands sit third in Group F behind Sweden, who beat Tunisia 5-1, and Japan. They face Sweden on 20 June at 14:00 at NRG Stadium in Houston, then finish the group on 25 June at 20:00 against Tunisia at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.

Source: Meu Timao