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The Netherlands was knocked out of the FIFA World Cup on penalties against Morocco -Credit:ANP via Getty Images
Three-time FIFA World Cup runners-up the Netherlands was stunningly knocked out in the Round of 32 on Monday at the hands of Morocco. Unfortunately, according to the KNVB, this has led to some players being subjected to vile racist abuse.
Ronald Koeman’s side, which lined up - unusually for a Dutch side - in a 5-2-3-1 formation against the Africa Cup of Nations champions, were held to a 1-1 draw after extra time, going on to lose in a penalty shootout just as four-time champions Germany had done earlier that day against Paraguay.
Following the shock defeat, Koeman faced heavy scrutiny, not least from soccer legend and current FOX Sports analyst Zlatan Ibrahimović, who blamed the loss on the former Barcelona defender. Koeman has since left his role.
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Head coach Ronald Koeman has since left his position -Credit:ANP via Getty Images
However, it seems public outrage has not solely been directed at Koeman, with players also taking much of the brunt, some of whom “have been subjected to racist and discriminatory abuse.”
In a statement released by the Dutch football association on Tuesday, the KNVB said, “We would like to thank the players, coaching staff, and everyone involved for their dedication and commitment throughout this World Cup.
“We also extend our sincere appreciation to the supporters; those in the stadium, those watching from home, and everyone around the world who followed and supported the Netherlands. Football brings people together, regardless of origin or background.
“We have seen online reactions in which players have been subjected to racist and discriminatory abuse following the team's elimination. We draw a clear line against such behaviour. Racism and discrimination have no place in football, online, or in our society.”
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The Dutch players now return home having failed to win a World Cup knockout game for the first time since 2006 in Germany (although they did not qualify at all for the 2018 World Cup in Russia).
Looking ahead, it remains unclear who will take charge of this wayward side, and which players will be along for the ride, given that captain Virgil van Dijk, record goalscorer Memphis Depay, Denzel Dumfries, Nathan Aké, Wout Weghorst, and Marten de Roon are all 30 or older.
As for Koeman, he announced his exit in a post on Instagram on Tuesday, stating, “Last night, I made the decision to conclude my tenure as head coach of the Dutch national team.”
He went on to add, “We all dreamed of a World Cup in which we would make history. That did not happen. No one is more disappointed about that than I am. As head coach, you bear that responsibility. I have always felt it, and I always will.
“Moreover, the past few years have made me realize once again that there are more important things than football. Football has been my life, but health is priceless. When someone you love dearly is fighting a tough battle, your perspective changes.
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The international futures of the likes of veterans Wout Weghorst and Denzel Dumfries could come into question after this early World Cup exit -Credit:Alex Pantling - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
“Despite her own illness, my wife Bartina supported and encouraged me every day to finish my work as head coach. That shows incredible strength. I am more grateful to her for that than I could ever put into words.”
Koeman thanked the players, staff, KNVB, and the fans, saying that it had been “a tremendous honor to represent the Netherlands as head coach.
“I am saying goodbye with mixed feelings. Naturally, I would have preferred to conclude my time with the national team by winning the World Cup. Unfortunately, that dream remained unfulfilled.
“But above all, pride prevails. Pride in everything football has brought me, in the people I have met, and in the fact that I was able to turn my greatest passion into my profession.
“Thank you for all those years filled with trust, criticism, support, disappointments, successes, and unforgettable moments. It was a privilege.”
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