Analysis: what's wrong with Netherlands corners

In preparation for the 2026 World Cup, Ronald Koeman had made set pieces a priority project. The Dutch coach believed that the selection defended correctly during qualifying but lacked offensive efficiency in set phases. On the offensive side, his plan is starting to bear fruit: the Netherlands already have three goals from set pieces in three World Cup matches, and no team in the tournament has done better by taking advantage of long throw-ins, long free kicks and corners.

However, the defensive record contrasts with this offensive success. Oranje conceded two goals from corners at this stage. More broadly, fifty percent of goals conceded and nearly 40% of Expected Goals against come from set situations. In other words, too large a part of the opposing danger arises from fixed phases.

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On corners, the analysis is clear: errors repeat themselves. On two occasions, the Dutch defense gave in on similar situations, revealing deficient automatisms in the organization and communication on these sequences. Without going back to individualities, it appears that the collective positioning and the management of second balls can still be improved.

The paradox is therefore glaring: Koeman was able to improve the offensive impact on the standards, but the overall balance of the team suffers from defensive fragility in these same situations. Quickly finding solutions on corners – both in terms of marking and withdrawals – will be essential if the Netherlands want to transform their offensive efficiency into a calmer path in the knockout phase.