Koeman attracted intense scrutiny for altering his defensive blueprint, ditching his traditional back four to deploy five defenders. The unexpected tactical shift marked the first time the Oranje had started a match with a five-man backline since a 2-1 defeat against Germany in March 2024ending a consecutive run of 31 fixtures played with a standard defensive quartet.
When pressed on whether he had already stepped down from his position, Koeman responded: “No, I haven’t. I’m going to reflect on my future. This is straight after a game and the disappointment is so fresh in your mind. I’m going to reflect on it and maybe I’ll come to a conclusion by tomorrow morning.”
He added on the Netherlands’ defensive set-up: “You can think whatever you like but we gave away much less against a team that was stronger than Sweden and Tunisia. If I had to do it again I’d do it all the same way. As the Dutch coach when the equaliser is scored I am always going to be scolded for the fact I chose five defenders.
“But you criticise, which is your right. You watch from the sidelines, I’m here with the team and, once again, I’d do it again.”
