Ronald Koeman Under Fire: Criticism Mounts After Netherlands' Struggles
The Dutch football world is focusing its criticism on coach Ronald Koeman after the Netherlands' recent international matches against Poland and Lithuania. Despite securing four points from the two games, confidence in the Dutch national team (Oranje) has dwindled, largely due to Koeman's tactics and perceived lack of inspiration.
Koeman Deemed the Scapegoat
Media outlets, analysts, and Oranje fans alike are increasingly viewing Ronald Koeman as the main culprit for the team's lackluster performances. Critics on social media accuse him of failing to inspire the team and make them "swing." The narrow 2-3 victory over Lithuania in Kaunas only intensified the scrutiny, with many attributing the unconvincing win solely to the coach's leadership.
Tactical Decisions Draw Ire
Many Dutch football fans were dismayed by Koeman's decision to bring on an extra defender, Matthijs de Ligt, in place of attacker Donyell Malen, towards the end of the match against Lithuania. This defensive substitution sparked widespread ridicule and criticism on social media platform X, highlighting the perceived instability in the team's performance under Koeman's guidance.
Media Pundits Join the Chorus of Criticism
Maarten Wijffels, a journalist for the Algemeen Dagblad, voiced his concerns about Koeman's approach. He criticized the coach's tactics, stating, "Ending with five defenders against Lithuania, as if it were Argentina in the World Cup. That sums up the mess of this match. The progress failed to materialize this international period. The duels against Spain in March are quickly forgotten this way. The coach and players together hit a new low."
Questionable Knowledge of the Rules
Adding to the criticism, it was revealed that Ronald Koeman was unaware that goal difference, rather than head-to-head results, determines the final standings in World Cup qualification groups when teams are tied on points. This revelation raised questions about his preparedness and attention to detail, especially considering his role in leading Oranje to the next World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Driessen Criticizes Koeman's Selection Policy
Journalist Valentijn Driessen believes Ronald Koeman isn't experimenting enough with the team and making tough selection decisions, labeling it a "sect formation." He argues that some players seem to have a guaranteed spot in the squad. Driessen suggests that players like Sem Steijn should be given opportunities, arguing that he is more likely to score than many of the current internationals.
Call for Change and Innovation
Driessen advocates for more innovation in the Dutch national team, criticizing the perceived "subscription" system where certain players are consistently selected regardless of performance. He draws a contrast with the approach of Johan Cruijff, who would readily bring in young talents from the youth academy to replace underperforming players. Driessen emphasizes the need for Koeman to inject dynamism into the team and challenge the players' complacency.
