Ronald Koeman bemoaned Netherlands’ goalscoring troubles from open play, despite their 2-1 friendly win over Uzbekistan.
Cody Gakpo scored two penalties for the 10-man Netherlands, netting the second in the 98th minute to cancel out Igor Sergeev’s equaliser two minutes into stoppage time.
Koeman’s side also had Guus Til sent off in the 87th minute for the denial of a goalscoring opportunity, but it mattered little in the end as Netherlands got over the line.
However, they also failed to score in a shock 1-0 loss to Algeria, while their previous friendly before that – a 1-1 draw with Ecuador in March – saw them profit from an own goal.
Netherlands had 15 shots against Uzbekistan, accumulating 4.6 expected goals (xG), a total largely inflated by the two spot-kicks, but they managed to get just four of those attempts on target.
And Koeman noted how important it is that Netherlands find their goalscoring touch for the World Cup if they want to have a deep run.
“We created a lot of chances, but in two matches we only scored twice from a penalty,” he told ANP.
“In these two matches, we should have scored at least three goals from open play. We won’t get very far at the World Cup like this.
Next up: #FIFAWorldCup #NothingLikeOranje #NEDUZB pic.twitter.com/Ake6f840AZ
— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) June 8, 2026
“We already had three big chances in the first half [against Uzbekistan]. [Crysencio] Summerville handling the ball poorly, [Donyell] Malen with that chance in front of the goal, and [Tijjani] Reijnders with that header.
“So, we are creating chances, but we are struggling to score goals.”
Prior to that match, Netherlands confirmed that Jurrien Timber had been ruled out of the World Cup due to a groin injury, and they received another potential blow.
Bart Verbruggen was forced off in the second half after a collision with Abdukodir Khusanov. Though he initially tried to carry on, he was replaced by Mark Flekken.
“I think he had a problem with his hip. We will have to wait and see. He will be examined,” Koeman added about Verbruggen.
Netherlands’ World Cup campaign begins against Japan on June 14, with Sweden and Tunisia also to come in Group F.
