Netherlands return after World Cup exit as players land at Schiphol

The Netherlands men's national team landed at Schiphol on Tuesday evening around 22:20 local time following their Round of 16 exit at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Monterrey. After a 1-1 draw against Morocco, the Dutch lost on penalties, a result that led head coach Ronald Koeman to announce his departure. Players and staff continued to the VIP centre at the airport after touchdown.

Netherlands' last match on 30 June 2026 ended 1-1 with Morocco. With an unbeaten run of five games (4W-1D), the side had been performing well under Koeman, but the World Cup exit now overshadows his legacy.

What happened in Monterrey?

In the early hours of Tuesday, the Netherlands lost to Morocco on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Monterrey. The shootout finished 4-2, ending Oranje's World Cup run. The disappointing result triggered a major decision: Ronald Koeman will step down as head coach of the Netherlands.

Koeman announced after the game he would not extend his contract. He leaves with an unbeaten record in the last five matches, but the Round of 16 exit marks the end of his tenure. Most players flew straight back to the Netherlands after landing, though a few internationals headed to other destinations.

Why this matters for Netherlands

The Round of 16 exit in Monterrey is a heavy blow for the Dutch, who had started strongly before falling at the first knockout hurdle. With an unbeaten run of five games (4W-1D), the side looked set for better things, but the penalty loss to Morocco throws the KNVB's future plans into doubt.

Ronald Koeman departs after five years in charge. His exit signals a new chapter for the Netherlands, which must now find a successor. The KNVB faces a tight timeline to plot the team's course, especially ahead of the next international window.

What's next for the Netherlands

The focus now shifts to Oranje's future. With an unbeaten run of five games (4W-1D), the side remains in good form, but the World Cup exit demands a reset. The KNVB must move fast to appoint a new head coach and keep the momentum alive.

The next international fixture is scheduled for 24 September 2026, when the Netherlands host Germany at home. Frenkie de Jong and Xavi Simons remain unavailable for selection. Squad talks and training camps will dominate the coming weeks as the side prepares for the next cycle.