Koeman praises Japan: 'I saw a team that played very good football'

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman offered praise for Japan's footballing prowess following their 2-2 draw in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite the shared points, Koeman indicated he wasn't overly disappointed, recognizing Japan's significant contributions to the game.

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You feel a slight disappointment when you can't win a match you were leading twice.

"You feel a slight disappointment when you can't win a match you were leading twice," Koeman stated. He acknowledged that Japan created notable chances, adding, "On the other hand, I can accept this result because Japan also had enough opportunities. It was a high-level match for both sides."

Koeman analyzed Japan's tactical approach, noting their typical high-pressing style but observing a more reserved strategy in this particular game. "When you analyze Japan, you see a team that constantly presses forward. However, they didn't do that for long periods in this match. They waited behind the ball with numerous players. In that sense, they showed a bit of hesitation, which made it quite difficult for us to find openings," he explained.

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On the other hand, I can accept this result because Japan also had enough opportunities. It was a high-level match for both sides.

Reflecting on his own team's performance, Koeman expressed contentment, especially when compared to their recent World Cup warm-up matches. "We had been disappointed in the two friendly matches we played leading up to the 2026 World Cup. We had a lot to improve. But I found the football we played today much better than in recent matches. You have to wait for your moments, and we did that very well," he said.

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When you analyze Japan, you see a team that constantly presses forward. However, they didn't do that for long periods in this match. They waited behind the ball with numerous players. In that sense, they showed a bit of hesitation, which made it quite difficult for us to find openings.

Addressing player substitutions late in the game, Koeman defended his decisions. He explained bringing on Nathan Aké to counter the opponent's wing pressure, Crysencio Summerville's exit due to a yellow card, and substituting Memphis Depay for a player who could retain possession better. "Different interpretations can be made about these decisions afterward, but these are the choices you make at that moment," Koeman concluded.

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We had been disappointed in the two friendly matches we played leading up to the 2026 World Cup. We had a lot to improve. But I found the football we played today much better than in recent matches. You have to wait for your moments, and we did that very well.