The Dutch national team will play one more match this season and then the internationals can go on holiday. Due to last Wednesday’s defeat against Croatia, the Orange will play against Italy for third place. “A second defeat would be very disappointing, but the European Championship qualification predominates,” said national coach Ronald Koeman at a very short press conference.
The born Zaankanter is looking for revenge after the painful defeat against Croatia (4-2) earlier this week. “We don’t have many moments when we come together. On Wednesday we also did a lot of things well and we want to continue that. Those two goals against, not the penalties, were not well defended either.”
“We have to be much more aggressive around sixteen,” Koeman continues. “You have to be much closer to your direct opponent. In terms of communication, it can also be much better.”
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Denzel Dumfries, right back of Internazionale, also joined and is looking forward to the confrontation with Italy. “We are all proud to play for the Dutch national team, but we preferred to go for first place. It is an important measuring moment in the process. Italy provides an extra stimulus, because many teammates play there.”
“We are working on qualifying for the European Championship 2024,” says Koeman. “That ultimately prevails, but a duel against Italy is always a top match. They first won the European Championship and then did not qualify for the World Cup. They are always difficult to beat.”
The consolation final is tomorrow in Enschede, kick-off is at 3 p.m.