Van Hooijdonk is wildly enthusiastic: “In the Netherlands team, he always delivers”

The wide 5-1 victory of the Netherlands national team over Sweden ensured happy faces at the table at NOS. The analysts saw an Oranje side that played with attacking conviction, with leading roles for Ryan Gravenberch and Cody Gakpo. At the same time, there were also critical notes about the defensive performance of Ronald Koeman’s team.

Netherlands made an impression in Houston with attractive attacking play. Brian Brobbey and Gakpo each scored two goals, while substitute Crysencio Summerville provided the finishing touch in the closing stages.

Rafael van der Vaart was satisfied with what Oranje showed after the final whistle, but didn’t find everything equally convincing. "Very good. After the break we started well. 5-1 at a World Cup against a strong team", said the former international. Still, he also saw a clear point for improvement. "Up front very good, at the back disastrous."

According to Van der Vaart, above all the energy in the attacking play was a big plus. "Good attacks to see, good goals, good energy as well. This is how you want to see it. Then we don’t have to complain so much."

Guus Hiddink also saw a clear difference from the first group match against Japan. According to the experienced coach, this time there was more pressure on the game, something the internationals handled well. "Now the pressure was on completely. These guys are used to playing under pressure."

In addition, Hiddink reserved special compliments for Gravenberch, whom he considered one of the driving forces against Sweden. "Gravenberch was one of the standouts and got going. Of course you have to win against Uzbekistan and Algeria, but then right at the end there is that sharpness and spirit in them that they now have."

Pierre van Hooijdonk likewise saw multiple players stand out, but focused his attention primarily on Gakpo. According to the former striker, the Netherlands forward once again confirmed his value at a major tournament. "He always delivers. Every finals tournament he is the top scorer."

Van Hooijdonk also enjoyed the way Gakpo constantly put his direct opponent under pressure. After Van der Vaart noted that the attacker was constantly seeking the duel, he added: "You can see the fear in the defender. At a certain point he’s standing in the five-meter area."

Where Ronald Koeman still received criticism for his substitutions after the draw against Japan, this time he could count on compliments. In particular, Summerville's substitute appearance impressed Van Hooijdonk. "Great substitution by the national coach: Summerville", the analyst concluded.

Thanks to the convincing win over Sweden, Oranje has made excellent progress in Group F and a spot in the knockout stage now seems certain.