Koeman Calls Netherlands' 2-2 Japan Draw World Cup Minimum Standard
Updated
Updated · ESPN · Jun 15
Koeman Calls Netherlands' 2-2 Japan Draw World Cup Minimum Standard
3 articles · Updated · ESPN · Jun 15
Summary
Ronald Koeman said the Netherlands' 2-2 draw with Japan set only the "minimal standard" for a team chasing its first World Cup title, adding they must improve as the tournament progresses.
Two surrendered leads drove that verdict: Virgil van Dijk scored in the 51st minute and Crysencio Summerville in the 64th, but Keito Nakamura equalized six minutes after the opener and Daichi Kamada rescued Japan in the 88th.
Koeman said he had no regrets over making five substitutions at 2-1, arguing Japan changed its pressing after falling behind while the Dutch defended both goals poorly, especially on the flanks.
The result left the Netherlands without a win in a World Cup match despite leading twice for the first time in their history, with Sweden next in Group F while Japan face Tunisia.