WOLFBSBURG: Dutch forward Memphis Depay said his team had identified the cause of their poor performance in the first round of Euro 2024 and were ready to begin the challenge in the knockout stages.
The Netherlands did a ‘post mortem’ after losing in the last action of the group at the hands of Austria in Berlin.
The result dropped them to third place in the group and leads them to face Romania in the last 16 in Munich at midnight tomorrow.
“This tournament has only just started,” said Depay commenting on the knock-out competition which began on Saturday and saw Germany and Switzerland advance.
“We have to make sure that we learn from mistakes. We have discussions and criticize each other.
“It’s normal if there’s tension if the result isn’t what you want. But it’s over.
“The players are now in high spirits and we can’t wait to start the challenge in the knockout rounds.”
Depay played 90 minutes for the first time this season against Austria after suffering injury problems with Atletico Madrid.
In that match, he also scored a goal but it was not enough to deny Austria a 3-2 victory.
“It has to be better, but I was satisfied in my last match. I won my fight, even if I didn’t get many balls.
“I believe it will improve after this,” said Depay.
Before the match, Depay received a lot of criticism following his lackluster performance but the coach, Ronald Koeman still put his faith in the player and listed him in the starting line-up.
“I want to repay the coach’s trust. Of course it is important for you to receive the support of the individual who chose you to be in the starting line-up,” said Depay.
Asked how many goals a striker needs at the Euros, Depay said: “It’s not about numbers. If you score one goal in the final, it will be the most important goal of your career.”