Dutch women's team misses direct World Cup qualification after loss and win

The Dutch national football team, Oranje, has missed out on direct qualification for next year's World Cup in Brazil. A recent 3-1 victory over Poland was not enough to reclaim the top spot in their group, as France secured a 1-0 win against Ireland.

This outcome follows an unexpected loss to Ireland last Friday, which saw the Netherlands drop to third place in the group standings. Earlier in March, the team also dropped crucial points in a 2-2 draw at home against Poland.

Coach Arjan Veurink acknowledged that the team "let it slip at multiple moments." Despite the disappointment, the Netherlands still has a chance to qualify through play-offs later this year, as they finished among the top three teams in the group.

Veurink, who took over after the European Championship, had aimed to build a new team with young talent. He has given opportunities to several young players, with six making their debut under his leadership. The team showed more flair and courage in recent matches, particularly against France, even with a defense featuring two 19-year-olds.