Netherlands head coach, Ronald Koeman, has expressed deep disappointment following his team’s 2-1 defeat to England in the Euro 2024 semi-final.
According to AFP, he emphasized his frustration over what he perceived as a controversial penalty decision and a heartbreaking late goal that ended their hopes.
“I am disappointed with the final result in a match that started well for us,” Koeman told reporters at Dortmund’s Westfalenstadion. “We took an early lead through a fantastic goal by Xavi Simons.”
The Dutch were quickly pegged back by Harry Kane’s penalty, a decision Koeman questioned.
“What can defenders do in such situations? In my opinion, that should not have been awarded as a penalty,” he lamented. “VAR disrupts the flow of football.”
Despite the setback, Koeman believed his team regained control after tactical adjustments.
“Bringing on Joey Veerman helped us stabilize midfield after Memphis Depay’s injury,” he noted. “We struggled initially against players like Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden but felt we were the better team in the final stages.”
Reflecting on their campaign, Koeman acknowledged the progress made since the 2022 World Cup.
“We should be proud of our achievements in this tournament,” he stated. “Despite missing key players like Frenkie de Jong, this team has shown potential.”
Looking ahead, Koeman expressed optimism about the future. “There’s more to come from this team, with new players joining us,” he said. “We need to improve in certain areas, but we were close to reaching the final.”
The disappointment of missing out on a final against Spain, a rematch of the 2010 World Cup, was palpable for Koeman. “Instead of Berlin, we head home to prepare for upcoming UEFA Nations League matches,” he acknowledged.
Assessing England’s chances in the final against Spain, Koeman offered his perspective. “England demonstrated strong football after going behind,” he observed. “They have the capability to challenge Spain at this level.”
Despite the defeat, Koeman remains focused on the future challenges ahead for the Dutch national team.
