Ron Vlaar defends Dutch defence and calls criticism of Van Dijk unfair

Former defender Ron Vlaar said he still trusts the Netherlands national team’s defence but criticised the unfair focus on Virgil van Dijk after the side allowed two goals in the World Cup opener against Japan, a 2‑2 draw that sparked fresh scrutiny. For several seasons the Netherlands defence was regarded as the unit that required the least attention. That reputation has been challenged by recent performances. In the latest fixtures the Dutch side has allowed a noticeable number of goals. The defensive frailties have become a talking point among observers. The Netherlands goalkeeper has failed to keep a clean sheet in the last five internationals. Each of those matches has seen at least one goal conceded.

Ron Vlaar says Netherlands defence remains solid after 2-2 draw with Japan

Across those five games the team has let in six goals while scoring seven. The resulting goal difference remains only marginally positive. At the World Cup opening match against Japan the Netherlands drew 2‑2. Two of the goals were conceded, contributing to the criticism of the back line.

Koeman’s Netherlands substitutions at World Cup spark debate on Dutch tradition

The draw prompted a wave of criticism directed at the defensive unit. Commentators questioned the solidity of the back line after the two goals. Ron Vlaar defended the defence and argued that the criticism aimed at Virgil van Dijk is not always fair. He stressed that the focus on one player overlooks the collective nature of defensive work.