Netherlands overtakes Sweden and advances in the 2026 World Cup
The Netherlands beat Sweden with an impressive 5-1 in the second game of the 2026 World Cup, with coach Ronald Koeman explaining the substitution of Donyell Malen at half-time for tactical reasons.
The Netherlands team gave Sweden no chance and thrashed 5-1 in their second match at the 2026 World Cup, practically guaranteeing qualification for the round of 16 of the tournament. Coach Ronald Koeman commented on the substitution of striker Donyell Malen, who started playing, but was changed at half-time even though the team was already leading 2-0.
"The reason for the substitution was a bit of a change in Sweden's scheme," explained Koeman. "They started playing with five defenders, but after 2-0, they changed to four at the back, and we needed a player who could play more openly. Donyell is a player who starts more on the flank, but then invades the area", added the coach.
Koeman also mentioned that Crysencio Summerville, who replaced Malen, was not in ideal condition to start the match, but could contribute well as a substitute. In two matches played in the competition, Malen failed to score, despite having scored 14 goals in 18 games for Roma since his transfer from Aston Villa.
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