Netherlands Coach Ronald Koeman Reflects on 3-2 Loss to Austria in EURO 2024

After a tough 3-2 loss to Austria in the ongoing EURO 2024, Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman acknowledged his team’s defensive issues. Despite goals from Cody Gakpo and Memphis Depay, the Dutch team couldn’t secure a win. Austria’s Romano Schmid, Marcel Sabitzer, and an own goal led to their victory.

In the post-match press conference, Koeman pointed out several mistakes and a lack of aggression from his team. He said, “We started very badly. We did not defend well. We were not aggressive, there was a lack of pressure and we lost the ball as well, particularly at the start so it was really very bad.”

Koeman also mentioned that his team did not control the match well. “The players ran a lot, but not in the positions so it was awful, very bad. We did not control the match. The match against France was reasonable as a team, but today it was appalling,” he added.

Despite the loss, Koeman remains hopeful for the future. “I am responsible for this match, but we are still in the next stage and have to play much better. It is possible with this squad. They have the qualities. If we fail, you can ask me this question [about my future] again,” he said.

The Netherlands are in Group D of the EURO 2024, along with Austria, France, and Poland. They are currently in third place with four points after winning one of their previous three games.