MONTERREY, Mexico : Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman defended his decision to deploy a more defensive system against Morocco after his side’s World Cup exit on Monday, insisting the approach was designed to improve their chances of winning rather than reflecting any fear of the opposition.
The Dutch were eliminated 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw following extra time, with Morocco advancing to a last-16 meeting against co-hosts Canada in Houston on Saturday.
Koeman opted to field five defenders, a move that is likely to draw criticism in a country long associated with attacking football, but said he would make the same decision again.
“With this defensive approach, we gave away much less than we did during the (group) matches,” Koeman told reporters.
“That was positive, but also we were less offensive.
“You can think of the tactics whatever you like, but we gave away much less against a team much stronger than Sweden and Tunisia. And if I had to do it again, I would do it the same way again.”
Morocco forced extra time through Issa Diop’s stoppage-time equaliser before prevailing in the shootout.
“I also know that if Morocco hadn’t equalised with that late goal, there would be all sorts of compliments for me as the Dutch coach,” Koeman said.
“But now, probably, I’m going to be scolded for the fact that I chose five defenders. Once again, I believe it was necessary.”
Koeman said the tactical plan had been discussed with his players beforehand and they had agreed with the approach.
“You will criticise me, and that’s your right, but you watch football from the sidelines,” he said.
“I’m with the team. I knew what needed to be improved. This is how I improved it. And once again, if I had to do it again, I would have done exactly the same.”
Rejecting suggestions that his team had been overly cautious, Koeman said the system was based on analysis rather than apprehension.
“It was not about being afraid. That’s not what it was about at all. Why afraid? I mean, we had three strikers on the field,” he said during a tense exchange with reporters.
“This is about a better defensive position, not out of fear, but based on an analysis of the opposition, and we can keep discussing this until tomorrow evening.
“You have your opinion, with all due respect, that’s fine. But I have a different view.”
Koeman added that he would take time to reflect before deciding whether to remain in charge following another disappointing World Cup campaign for the Netherlands.
