** `

Ronald Koeman expressed deep disappointment after the Netherlands' penalty shootout loss to Morocco.

Koeman acknowledged the draw was difficult and that Morocco had better chances for long stretches, though the Netherlands had briefly led 1-0. He noted the team didn't entirely lose control in the final stages, but rather conceded when a well-placed cross found its way into the goal, making the late-game loss particularly painful. On the penalty shootout, Koeman said everyone saw what happened: after Bart van Rijs' save, a second penalty struck his heel and went in, compounding the misfortune.

Asked about the penalty takers, Koeman explained the overall order was largely as planned before the match, with Justin as the final adjustment—originally considered one of their better penalty takers, but ultimately he missed, adding another blow. Regarding a comprehensive post-match analysis, Koeman said he could only assess this specific match now; he would discuss the full tournament, disappointment, and elimination tomorrow.

Koeman noted the match unfolded as he expected. The Netherlands adopted a different defensive approach, allowing fewer chances than in previous games—a positive—though offensive output also decreased. He felt the team could have created more threat down the left flank, and while the right side produced several promising breaks, the final pass was often poorly executed. Koeman also highlighted Morocco's dangerous set pieces from their right-back position; a substitute attacker even created their best chance, but van Rijs made a fine save with the score at 1-1.

On switching to a five-defender system, Koeman explained the Netherlands had used five defenders against Japan and Tunisia previously, but this time employed a clearer five-man defensive structure. He emphasized it was for defensive stability based on tactical analysis and player assessment, not out of fear. He would make the same choice again, and while a different result might have earned more praise, he acknowledged he would now face criticism for selecting five defenders. He noted areas for improvement seen in both training and matches, adding such adjustments were necessary.

When asked if the Netherlands looked insufficiently aggressive, Koeman admitted the team created too few chances but felt this related to his tactical choices. He noted the right flank produced several breakthrough attempts, though final-pass quality was lacking. While many might view this loss as a disgrace for Dutch football, Koeman said he hadn't considered his future or departure and would not discuss resignation immediately after the match. He would reassess tomorrow, with conclusions possibly not coming until late afternoon.

Koeman was also asked whether the fifth penalty taker was decided beforehand not to take penalties. He explained one player mentioned calf discomfort during extra time, while another experienced cramps, ultimately changing the order. Berghorst was originally lower in the sequence but became the third taker due to these circumstances.

On Morocco, Koeman stated African teams have clearly improved significantly this World Cup—tactically and in playing style. He found Morocco particularly impressive: talented, with many young players developing and playing for major European clubs. He noted there's a reason Morocco ranks higher than the Netherlands.

Finally, asked what he told players in the locker room, Koeman said he said nothing now and would speak later.

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