As the Netherlands became the first team to advance to the quarterfinals of the 2022 Qatar World Cup undefeated, criticism of the performance that was pouring in also subsided.



Coach Louis Panhal, who even waged a war of words with the media over the philosophy of 'practical football', dismissed criticism in the meantime, saying, "I am sufficiently evaluated by people around me."



The Netherlands defeated the United States 3-1 in the round of 16 of the tournament held at the Khalifa International Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar on the 4th (Korean time).



The Netherlands, who returned to the finals after 8 years with this tournament, advanced to the round of 16 with 1st place in Group A (2 wins, 1 draw) and advanced to the quarterfinals for the 7th time in their career.



According to Reuters, coach Panhal replied, "I know that the media doesn't always report positively. It's natural in football."



"We can become world champions," said Panjal, confidently.



The Netherlands, the originator of total soccer, is a country that has shone on the World Cup stage with creative and dynamic games in karate and defense.



However, in this competition, contrary to this tradition, the game has been criticized as being 'boring'.



Sports media The Athletic evaluated the second leg of Group A, which drew 1-1 with Ecuador, and said, "If it weren't for coach Louis Van Gaal and the Netherlands, this football would be '



After passing through the group stage with 2 wins and 1 draw amid criticism, coach Panjal refuted at a press conference, saying, "I don't agree with your evaluation that you were disappointed with the game."



The unique dynamism has disappeared, but as the Netherlands eventually rises to the quarterfinals, foreign media are giving favorable reviews instead of criticizing Panjal's football.



Reuters said, "For most of the second half (against the United States), the Netherlands played practical, risk-free football, which has recently become a symbol of coach Panhal." highly rated.



In fact, on this day, the Netherlands was behind the US in most attack indicators.



Occupation minus 13% of contention (33%-54%), shots taken (11-18), shots on target (6-7), and passes (396-567) all led the USA.



It was the result of playing 'preserving football' by stably running the game after the opening goal was scored 10 minutes after the start of the game.



(Photo = Getty Image Korea)