Veurink sees progress but Netherlands miss WC 2027 spot

Arjan Veurink stood in front of cameras after the victory over Poland with a "slightly sour feeling". The win did not secure direct qualification for the World Cup 2027, ending Veurink's first season as Dutch head coach. Veurink admitted the side can produce peaks of very good play but also moments that are simply not good enough. He described the current phase as one where growth is visible yet further improvement is required. Statistically, Veurink's average of 2.1 points per match exceeds the 1.8 under Andries Jonker and the 1.9 under Mark Parsons. The team shoots less often, creates more attempts, and records a lower Expected Goals figure. All opponents under Veurink have been within the top 30 of the FIFA world ranking. Injuries to Daniëlle van de Donk and Vivianne Miedema limited Veurink's options throughout the period. Newcomers such as Renee van Asten and Liz Rijsbergen featured, with Rijsbergen scoring her first goal for the Netherlands. Third captain Wieke Kaptein highlighted the large number of debutants. Esmee Brugts now occupies her preferred left‑wing role, while Damaris Egurrola thrives in midfield after receiving full confidence. The Netherlands must navigate a two‑leg play‑off system to reach the World Cup 2027, beginning with a UEFA League C opponent lower in the rankings. Veurink will spend the coming weeks on a family holiday before focusing on the October‑November play‑offs.