Dutch coach Koeman believes that prolonged high-pressure pressing is not feasible and that seizing the right opportunity based on the opponent's situation is more important.

The Netherlands, nicknamed the "Oranje," will begin their preparations for the 2026 World Cup with a friendly match against Algeria. In an interview, head coach Ronald Koeman stated that it's impossible for the team to maintain high-pressure pressing for extended periods in the high temperatures, making it crucial to be adept at seizing opportunities based on the opponent's movements.

After participating in friendly matches this month, the Netherlands will face Japan in their first match of Group F in the World Cup group stage. Other teams in Group F include Sweden and Tunisia.

In terms of squad additions, Depay, Malen, Gakopo, Kluivert, and Frenkie de Jong have all joined the team, while Van Dijk will continue as captain.

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman said, "We need to make the players understand how to break down the opponent's pressure through the organization of three or four defenders, by creating numerical superiority, stretching the defensive line, and creating space through off-the-ball movement. We still have room for improvement in these areas, and we will train on these details, and this is just talking about our own possession system."

“We will also focus on how to apply pressure, but I don’t think the team can apply high pressure to the opponent for 90 minutes straight in the high temperatures of the United States. But the important thing is to learn to identify and seize the right opportunity depending on the opponent.”

Koeman continued, "Of course, we want to control the ball and dominate the game for 90 minutes, but that's not always the case in football. When you can't control the ball, you have to learn how to cope and defend well. At the same time, you also need to know that the strength and speed of our attacking and midfield players will be a major weapon for the team."

"I have always believed that if we talk about the game from the perspective of our own ball control, then using a four-defender system is more likely to cause trouble for the opponent than simply matching and imitating the opponent's formation."

Image source: Internet