Henry Criticizes Koeman: Netherlands' Plan Reveals Fear of Morocco
Former French star Thierry Henry directed clear criticism towards Ronald Koeman, the coach of the Dutch national team, due to the tactical approach he adopted in the match against the Moroccan team, which resulted in the "Oranje" being eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after losing in a penalty shootout.
Henry considered that Koeman resorting to the tactical formation (5-4-1) reflected an excessive respect for the Moroccan team, and even carried a clear message that the Dutch team entered the match with the strength of the "Atlas Lions" in mind.
Henry said during his analysis of the match on the "Fox" channel: "When you take off a midfielder and add a defender, you are indirectly saying that you fear Morocco."
The former French star added that the tactical choices remain tied to the final result, explaining: "This is certainly permissible, as if you win, you are right, and if you lose, you are wrong."
Henry also expressed his surprise at the style in which the Dutch national team appeared, saying in this context: "I was really surprised because the Netherlands doesn't usually play this way, but it's clear that Koeman had a different vision."
The Moroccan national team secured their spot in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup after defeating the Netherlands in a penalty shootout (3-2), following a 1-1 draw in both regular and extra time. The "Atlas Lions" continue their journey in the tournament and are set to face Canada in the next round.
Henry considered that Koeman resorting to the tactical formation (5-4-1) reflected an excessive respect for the Moroccan team, and even carried a clear message that the Dutch team entered the match with the strength of the "Atlas Lions" in mind.
Henry said during his analysis of the match on the "Fox" channel: "When you take off a midfielder and add a defender, you are indirectly saying that you fear Morocco."
The former French star added that the tactical choices remain tied to the final result, explaining: "This is certainly permissible, as if you win, you are right, and if you lose, you are wrong."
Henry also expressed his surprise at the style in which the Dutch national team appeared, saying in this context: "I was really surprised because the Netherlands doesn't usually play this way, but it's clear that Koeman had a different vision."
The Moroccan national team secured their spot in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup after defeating the Netherlands in a penalty shootout (3-2), following a 1-1 draw in both regular and extra time. The "Atlas Lions" continue their journey in the tournament and are set to face Canada in the next round.
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