Koeman explains friendly against Uzbekistan and heat preparations

Ronald Koeman explained the reason for scheduling a friendly against Uzbekistan before the World Cup. He also disclosed that the medical staff introduced specific measures to ready players for the heat in the United States.

The match is set just days before the tournament begins in the United States. It provides a controlled setting to trial tactical tweaks.

Koeman said Uzbekistan was selected to mimic certain playing conditions. The team offers a contrast to typical European opposition.

The medical team will employ cooling vests during training. They will implement regulated hydration protocols to acclimatise players.

Koeman expects the heat preparations to lower the risk of fatigue in the World Cup group stage. The approach aligns with the federation’s focus on player welfare.

After the friendly, the Netherlands will travel to the United States with the new protocols in place. The squad will carry the preparations into the opening matches.