Netherlands weakness Morocco can exploit Round of 16

The Netherlands sent a strong message in Group F. After their draw against Japan (2-2), the Oranje dominated Sweden (5-1), with Cody Gakpo in great form, Brian Brobbey effective, and an attack capable of striking from multiple angles. On paper, Morocco’s potential opponent has all the hallmarks of a team to avoid: physical power, experience, technical quality, and finishing ability.

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But one statistic nuances this impression of strength. During the 5-1 victory against Sweden, Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen finished as his team’s second-best player according to Opta points, with a rating of 9.08. He made seven saves in particular. A detail that changes how we read the match: despite the scoreline, the Netherlands conceded chances and needed a great goalkeeper to maintain control.

The match against Japan had already sent a similar signal. The Dutch scored twice, but failed to neutralize a well-organized team, quick and capable of disrupting them in transitions. The Netherlands have talent, but their defense is not impenetrable. Whenever they are attacked with speed and precision, they can leave spaces open.

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For Morocco, this data is important. If the Atlas Lions face the Netherlands in the Round of 16, they must obviously be wary of a team very dangerous in attack. But they can also note that the Oranje are not unbeatable. Compact, patient, and sharp on the counter, Morocco would have arguments to pose real problems for them.