The recent form of the Netherlands national team has divided fans and analysts alike. While there have been flashes of brilliant play, there have also been moments of uncertainty that raise questions about coach Ronald Koeman's tactical choices. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, it’s essential to consider some crucial adjustments to create a stronger and more cohesive unit.

Defense and Build-up from the Back

One of the most noticeable aspects of the last matches has been the vulnerability in defense. The center-backs have sometimes struggled to withstand the pressure from the opposition, leading to unnecessary mistakes and opportunities for the opponent. A potential solution could be to strengthen the defense by positioning a defensive midfielder, such as Frenkie de Jong, deeper. This would not only increase defensive stability but also enhance build-up play from the back, as he is capable of distributing the ball quickly and accurately to the attacking lines.

Flexibility in Midfield

Moreover, there is a need for more flexibility in midfield. The combination of Donyell Malen and Steven Bergwijn on the flanks has potential, but it sometimes seems like they get in each other’s way. The idea of shifting one of them to a more central role could improve the team’s dynamics. This would create space for the other player to cut inside and disrupt the opponent's defense, potentially opening up room for our strikers. Furthermore, this adjustment could increase the pressure on the opponent's defense, resulting in more scoring opportunities.

Attacking with Purpose

In attack, it is crucial that Oranje has a clear strategy. Recent matches have shown that the team is capable of creating chances, but the finishing often leaves much to be desired. One possible tweak could be to maximize the depth of the strikers, especially by utilizing the speed of forwards like Cody Gakpo and Memphis Depay. Giving them more space to move and combine can allow the team to better exploit the vulnerabilities of the opponent. Encouraging quick, vertical passes from midfield could also contribute to creating more direct chances.

Conclusion

With the 2026 World Cup in sight, Oranje must adapt and evolve. Implementing these tactical adjustments can not only improve current form but also strengthen the overall team dynamics. It is up to Koeman and his staff to implement these ideas so that the Netherlands can compete for glory in the United States and Canada.