Netherlands' "Slow Start Syndrome" – First Group Stage Match Held to Draw by Japan, Exposing Problems Again

The Netherlands was held to a 2-2 draw by Japan in their first group stage match, exposing the team's old problem of "slow starts." In the first half, the Netherlands was completely out of form, allowing Japan to score two goals; in the second half, they managed to equalize, but it was too late, ultimately earning only one point.

This kind of "slow start" is fatal in knockout matches. If the Netherlands concedes an early goal to Morocco, Morocco will be even more determined to execute a defensive counterattack strategy, making the Netherlands' offensive efforts exponentially more difficult.

Koeman needs to address the team's "opening focus" issue. The team must enter a high-intensity game state from the first minute, rather than waiting until after conceding a goal to start pushing. Most of the Netherlands' players are from top European leagues, with peak physical condition and competitive form, so the slow start is more of a psychological issue than a physical one.

Morocco excels at "grabbing the early lead" – in their group stage match against Brazil, En-Nesyri scored in the 8th minute. If the Netherlands is not focused at the start of the match, Morocco is likely to repeat the same tactic.

#广场预测世界杯赢40000U