Memphis Depay’s record-breaking brace saved Netherlands from an embarrassing setback in Lithuania, but Rafael van der Vaart was far from impressed.
Depay’s double rescued Netherlands in shaky winRafael van der Vaart blasted the Dutch playersDepay became the national team's all-time top scorerFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Former Netherlands international Van der Vaart has launched a scathing attack on the national team following their nervy 3-2 World Cup qualifying win in Lithuania. Speaking on , the ex-Tottenham and Real Madrid star insisted the players "should be ashamed of themselves" for their complacent performance, which saw them throw away a 2-0 lead before half-time.
AdvertisementAFPTHE BIGGER PICTURE
The severe criticism from a respected former player highlights the growing unease surrounding the Dutch team's performances under Ronald Koeman. Despite securing a vital three points to remain top of Group G, the manner of the victory exposed a mental fragility and "nonchalance," according to Van der Vaart. His public condemnation, particularly of midfielder Jerdy Schouten, intensifies the pressure on a squad that was also held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by Poland just days earlier.
Despite the team's poor performance, Depay's double in the match took his international tally to 52 goals, officially making him the Netherlands' all-time leading goalscorer by surpassing Robin van Persie's previous record of 50.
WHAT VAN DER VAART SAID?
The former Ajax star said: "First of all, you should be utterly ashamed. Of course, you want to get off to a good start in a game, and that's what they managed. And then you let it slip away. That says something about the nonchalance that everyone seems to possess.
"Schouten does nothing at all. Everyone thinks: it'll be fine, it'll be fine, and no one intervenes. And that's almost like refusing to do your job."
He called it "a miracle" that Schouten was allowed to play on, adding: "I'm actually a fan of his, but today was dramatic."
AFPWHAT'S NEXT?
While Netherlands are in a strong position to qualify for the World Cup, the pressure is mounting on Koeman and his players to deliver a more convincing and professional performance. Another lacklustre display will only amplify the scrutiny from pundits and fans alike.
