Van Hooijdonk praises Koeman’s Morocco switch, Van der Vaart disagrees

Ronald Koeman’s decision to switch Oranje to a five-man defensive line for the match against Morocco has drawn praise from Pierre van Hooijdonk and criticism from Rafael van der Vaart. The tactical change was implemented to counter Morocco’s attacking threat, particularly on the right flank with Achraf Hakimi and Brahim Díaz. Van Hooijdonk, speaking to , called the adjustment “a good move” and stressed the need to account for strong opponents. “This is a very tough nut to crack,” he said. “You want to build in some security when facing Morocco, especially with Hakimi and Díaz on the right.” Van der Vaart, however, questioned the necessity of the shift. “It’s typical Koeman,” he said. “When I played at Ajax, we always played 4-3-3—except in the Champions League, when he used 5-3-2. That’s what he’s doing now.”

Driessen’s verdict: Oranje’s lack of self-reliance cost them against Morocco

The starting XI named by Koeman featured Jasper Cillessen in goal, with Denzel Dumfries, Jan Paul van Hecke, Virgil van Dijk, Nathan Aké, and Jeremie Frimpong in defence. Ryan Gravenberch and Frenkie de Jong anchored midfield, while Cody Gakpo, Brian Brobbey, and Xavi Simons formed the attack. Van der Vaart suggested that Oranje’s quality should allow them to play their natural style regardless of the opponent. “We are better than Morocco,” he said. “I hope it works out, but I wouldn’t have made that change.”