Low confidence and a shattered aura of invincibility are to blame for the Netherlands’ poor start to Euro 2012, Dutch coach Bert van Marwijk said Saturday.
The Netherlands’ chances of the reaching the quarterfinals have all but disappeared after a 1-0 loss to Denmark and a 2-1 defeat to Germany in their first two games.
In terms of confidence, the Dutch squad at Euro 2012 is a shadow of the team that reached the 2010 World Cup final, van Marwijk said.
“Two years ago at the World Cup, we felt unbeatable, like nobody could hurt us. And now, for two games in a row, we have conceded goals,” he said on the UEFA website.
“Our defense is nervous pushing forward, and so we actually lose the battle in midfield as well.”
To qualify for the quarterfinals, the Netherlands must beat Portugal by at least two goals Sunday and hope that Germany defeat Denmark.
