The Dutch had high hopes coming into the tournament but only just made it through to the round of 16 at Euro 2024. This article goes into detail about how well the Netherland’s have performed but also how far they will go.
Ronald Koeman’s side was expecting at least a top 2 finish with France coming in at number 1. But it is the Austrian’s that have taken that spot. In the 3 group games the Dutch beat Poland, drew with France and then lost in their final game to Austria.
Even though they conceded the same number of goals that they scored it was their defence that caused the issues. In their final game they conceded 3 goals to Ralf Rangnick’s side with the 1st being 2 minutes in and the other 2 coming straight after they scored themselves.
This shows a lack of concentration. In their last group games, all 3 goals that they conceded came down to the Austrians attacking the right side of the Netherlands, and instead of closing in they let them have the ball which allowed 3 good crosses into the box and 3 goals.
With the number of injuries they have had to deal with in their midfield, this could be one of the main issues with their lack of possession and their struggle to create as many chances as they did in their qualifiers. In their 3 groups games they have only averaged 47% which is nowhere near what they are used to.
Due to coming 3rd in their group, they are now set to play Romania. One thing that will need to change is their concentration at the back, with all their quality defenders in the side.
The Netherlands will start to defend better and more as a team if they can keep their heads together. Throughout the competition so far, the Romanians have managed to score 4 goals in their 3 games, which includes 3 goals against Ukraine in their opener. Also, the Romanians have always shown a no fear mentality in going forward, this means the Netherlands defence will have to be their best if they want to make in through.
With the Italians getting knocked out by the Swiss, the Dutch’s hardest fixture to the finals will be the English who haven’t performed anywhere near their highest. Could we see the Dutch in the final or will they come short?
How far do you think The Netherlands will get?