Eredivisie
Hans Kraay Jr. lauds Koeman’s Brobbey strike in 5‑1 win
Hans Kraay Jr. praised Ronald Koeman’s decision to start Brian Brobbey as striker in the Netherlands’ 5‑1 victory over Sweden, highlighting the two quick goals that helped secure the win. The comments were made today after the match, which saw the Dutch side dominate the game.
Koeman wanted more attackers in the opponent’s half and therefore placed Brobbey at the point. The tactical shift aimed to increase pressure on defensive sides such as Sweden.
Kraay Jr. said Brobbey can play with his back to the opposition, creating space for teammates. “What would be wonderful for Gakpo, for Reijnders, for Malen: all of them can interlink and move forward,” he told .
He added that the approach works especially against defensive teams like Japan and Sweden. That is why he understood Koeman’s choice of Brobbey as a target man in the press.
Kraay Jr. noted that even Zlatan Ibrahimovic, working as an analyst on American television, was more enthusiastic than ever about a striker other than himself. “The great Zlatan is completely a fan of this Oranje international,” he quoted.
After the match Brobbey remained unusually calm in media interviews. Kraay Jr. described him as realistic, saying he does not “light up the lamps” and will not start thinking he is Zlatan after two important goals.