Netherlands must improve against Spain in rematch

channelnewsasia.com

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman is preparing his team for a challenging match against Spain in the Nations League quarter-finals. The teams drew 2-2 in their first leg, but Spain will now have the advantage of playing at home in Valencia. Koeman expects a high-intensity match. He noted that both teams have lessons to learn from their previous encounter. Spain, he said, had moments when they struggled, and they will want to perform better this time. "They will come with intent," Koeman warned, emphasizing the need for his team to improve. The Dutch coach believes his side can surprise Spain. He mentioned they could have played better in the first leg. He hopes they will capitalize on their opportunities in this upcoming game. Koeman also needs to make adjustments to the lineup, as defender Jorrel Hato is suspended after being sent off in the first leg. Ian Maatsen has been brought in to fill that position. The upcoming match has implications for World Cup qualifying. If the Netherlands win, they will enter a tough group with Bulgaria and Turkey. If they lose, they will join a more favorable group with Finland and Malta. However, Koeman stressed that the team's focus remains on winning the Nations League. "It's a trophy. That's what we're going for," he said.


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