'We Fought Like Lions' - Koeman Reflects On Netherlands' Euro 2024 Semi-Final
Ronald Koeman expressed pride in the Netherlands team, who he said fought valiantly despite missing out on a spot in the Euro 2024 final. The Oranje were close to forcing extra time when Ollie Watkins scored England's decisive goal in the 90th minute, following Harry Kane's equaliser to Xavi Simons' early strike.
The Dutch team aimed to reach their first Euros final since their 1988 victory but narrowly missed the chance to face Spain in Berlin. This marked their fifth defeat in six semi-finals of the competition. Despite this, Koeman chose to highlight the positives from their campaign.
"We should be proud because we've achieved many things in these weeks and there's no criticism after seeing how my players fought until the end," Koeman told reporters post-match. "We have fought like lions. We just needed a little more balance and the English team did it better than us, so congratulations to them."
The Netherlands have not reached a major tournament final since losing to Spain in the 2010 World Cup. Koeman's optimism extended towards future prospects, particularly focusing on what they could achieve at the 2026 World Cup.
"I believe our team are able to do more and there are also players who will join us in the future," Koeman added. "Some people were not able to play because they were not fit. We have worked in a proper way together; it was important, and it gave us a path to follow."
Koeman acknowledged that improvements are necessary but felt they were very close to reaching the finals. "I wish I could see them playing in the final, but it's not possible. And I feel so sorry about that," he lamented.
Despite the disappointment, Koeman remained hopeful for future success. "Although now, it's too late. We can't do anything with that feeling, but in the future, we will come back stronger," he stated.
He also thanked his players for their belief and effort throughout the tournament. "I have to thank my players because they believed in something, and it was good to see that," Koeman said.
The Dutch head coach emphasised that their performance provided a foundation for future improvement and success. "We have to improve some aspects as well, but I think we were really close to the finals," he concluded.
@OnsOranje July 10, 2024
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