Driessen’s verdict: Oranje’s lack of grit exposed at the World Cup

Journalist Valentijn Driessen has criticised the manner in which Ronald Koeman and the Netherlands exited the World Cup. In his column, Driessen argues that the Dutch internationals possess the same passion as Cape Verde and Morocco’s players, yet failed to unlock it.

Driessen highlights Cape Verde’s performance against Argentina as an example of passion in action. Despite trailing 1-0 at half-time, the Cape Verdeans pushed Argentina into a corner after the break. ‘Analysing the passion of Cape Verde, you saw no passion in the first half, only awe for Messi and company. After going behind, the brakes came off,’ he writes.

The journalist draws a parallel with Oranje. ‘The Dutch internationals have the same passion,’ Driessen states. ‘Passion has little to do with origin, wealth or social status. It depends on playing style, quality and the scoreline.’ He contrasts Cape Verde’s intensity under pressure with Argentina’s reputation for grit, noting that true passion only surfaces when it matters.

Driessen reserves his sharpest criticism for Ronald Koeman. ‘Oranje never trailed at the World Cup. There was never a need for pure survival instinct to escape the knife,’ he writes. ‘Put a coach’s knife to his players’ throats and their footballing qualities mix naturally with passion and commitment.’

He calls for a bolder approach from Koeman, urging him to demand the utmost from his players rather than defaulting to caution. ‘Choose a daring style that pushes your players to their limits. Show courage instead of fear. Don’t add more defenders—seek the attack instead,’ Driessen argues. ‘Koeman did the opposite. That’s why Oranje looked listless against Morocco.’