Koeman 'A Bit Angry' with Netherlands' Sloppy Performance
Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman expressed his disappointment with his team's performance after a 3-2 win over Lithuania. Read more about the match.
“We were going to do maybe 10 to 15 per cent less. You can't get yourself into that kind of trouble. That free kick was good, you...”
Ronald Koeman, the Netherlands manager, expressed his disappointment with his team's performance after their 3-2 win over Lithuania in a World Cup qualifier. Despite securing the victory, Koeman admitted to being “a bit mad” at the way his team played, indicating his dissatisfaction with their overall display.
The Netherlands dominated possession with 68% of the ball, but Lithuania's resilience and counter-attacks made the game more competitive than expected. The Lithuanians managed to score two goals and gave the Netherlands a run for their money, with the final scoreline reading 3-2 in favor of the Netherlands. This hard-fought win showcased the team's ability to grind out results, even when not playing their best football.
Given the significant difference in FIFA rankings between the two teams, with the Netherlands being considerably higher-ranked than Lithuania (143rd), Koeman likely expected a more convincing victory. However, the actual match was far from a straightforward win, highlighting areas where the Netherlands needs to improve to reach their full potential.
Ronald Koeman expressed his dissatisfaction with the Netherlands' performance in Lithuania, saying, “I am a bit angry. It's clear that we played with fire. Fortunately, it didn't cost us any points. Otherwise, it might have been disastrous.” This sentiment came after the Dutch secured a narrow 3-2 victory over Lithuania in a FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The Netherlands had taken a 2-0 lead, but Lithuania staged a remarkable comeback, scoring two goals in the final 12 minutes of the first half to level the score at 2-2. PSV midfielder Jerdy Schouten's mistake led to Lithuania's first goal, while Stefan de Vrij gave away a cheap free kick that resulted in the equalizer. Despite this, Memphis Depay's record-breaking goals helped the Netherlands secure the win.
Three points in Kaunas. 🔒#NothingLikeOranje #LTUNED pic.twitter.com/Mr23DutUXb
— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) September 7, 2025
Record-Breaking Memphis Depay Shines in Netherlands' Win
Memphis Depay made history as he became the Netherlands' all-time leading goal scorer, surpassing Robin van Persie's record of 50 goals. Depay achieved this feat by scoring a brace against Lithuania, taking his international goal tally to 52. His impressive performance helped the Netherlands secure a 3-2 win in a thrilling World Cup qualifier.
Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman expressed his satisfaction with Depay's performance, despite being displeased with his team's overall display. “We were going to do maybe 10 to 15 per cent less. You can't get yourself into that kind of trouble. That free kick was good, you have to give him credit for that. Stefan de Vrij was blocked, which created a gap. Fortunately, we had Memphis.” Koeman's comments highlight Depay's crucial role in the team's victory.
Depay's record-breaking goals showcased his skill and determination as a striker. He scored twice in the match, with his second goal being a crucial header that sealed the win for the Netherlands. Depay's achievement has earned him recognition, and he expressed pride in surpassing Van Persie's record, thanking his former teammates for their inspiration.
𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐎𝐑𝐃 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐑. 👑#NothingLikeOranje pic.twitter.com/cUnmGquhgk
— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) September 7, 2025
Netherlands' Sloppy Week Continues
The Netherlands were at risk of dropping points for the second time running after drawing to Poland at home last Thursday. “Was I shocked? Well, you see things happening that make you think: how is this possible?”
“Look at the later stages, where Cody (Gakpo) and Micky (van de Ven) are both covering the same man, allowing a dangerous cross to be made. That should never happen.”
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