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Rabat – Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has stood by his decision to play five defenders against Morocco, stating he has no regrets and would make the same tactical choice again.
Speaking to Dutch channel NOS about the tactical backlash, Koeman maintained that his strategy was the correct approach despite the team’s exit.
“I look positively at the system we adopted. After the match is over, everyone thinks they know the truth. The whole of the Netherlands was demanding that we play with five defenders, and now that we played this way, there is still criticism. Everyone has their opinion, but that doesn’t concern me,” Koeman said.
The Dutch manager explained that the tactical shift was a direct response to defensive weaknesses shown earlier in the tournament.
“In the group stage, we were giving opponents way too much space, and against a team with Morocco’s quality, that means you are asking for trouble. Therefore, after consulting with the players, we decided to play with five defenders, and I have no regrets. If the match were replayed, I would choose the exact same system,” he further explained.
Accepting full accountability for the outcome, Koeman emphasized that his responsibility to protect the team outweighed any fear of public backlash.
“I don’t care if I am blamed for the defeat. I could have ignored the spaces we gave to opponents in the group stage, but it is my duty as a manager to make the right decisions, even if they generate a lot of opinions,” he added.
The high-stakes Tuesday clash saw Morocco edge past the Netherlands on penalties after the two sides fought to a tense 1–1 draw.
Cody Gakpo seemed to have sent the Netherlands through with a 72nd-minute opener, only for Issa Diop to shatter Dutch hopes with a dramatic 91st-minute equalizer that forced the match into extra time.
Morocco now advances into the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup to face Canada this Saturday in Houston, looking to keep their historic World Cup run alive.
