The Netherlands at the Women's European Championship: Oranje in free fall

In the end, the Dutch could be thankful that they had conceded just four goals. One scene was emblematic of England's superiority: when goalkeeper Hannah Hampton played the ball flat and razor-sharply from her own penalty area across half the pitch directly into the feet of striker Alessia Russo, it looked as if England had fired a laser beam. This pass was more than just the prelude to another attack - it was a symbol of the entire game: England with a clear line and determination, while the Oranje, on the other hand, were often disoriented and without a grasp. While the English underlined after their opening defeat to France that they were rightfully among the favorites for this European Championship, the Dutch women's faces were full of disappointment. Worse still, the defeat raised questions about the internal relationship within the team.

The Dutch women's play often appeared disorganized, and their faces looked annoyed. A problem with attitude? At least, this seems to be the central issue coach Andries Jonker wants to address. Even before the tournament opener against Wales, he asked: "Do these girls still want to play with this team? That's important to me. That's the key."

To emphasize the team spirit, according to media reports, Jonker placed a national team jersey on the table during preparations for the tournament and asked all players and the entire coaching staff to sign it – as a sign that everyone was committed to the common goal. A symbol of solidarity. But evidence keeps surfacing that suggests the opposite.

Several players have pointed out in recent press conferences and interviews that they don't fully understand Jonker's decisions. The experienced Daniëlle van de Donk, in particular, was strongly critical of coach Jonker's initial placement on the bench against England. Her presence in midfield was sorely missed, but she didn't make an appearance until the 66th minute. "After the game against Wales, I had some slight groin problems, but today I was fit enough to play from the start. However, the decision to leave me out was already made yesterday," the 33-year-old said, clearly dissatisfied with her coach's decision.

Lineth Beerensteyn also criticized Jonker. As the Bundesliga's top scorer, she was visibly irritated to also be benched against England. She expressed hope "that the coach will find the right plan for the game against France. We definitely have to change something." Former Wolfsburg coach and briefly Bayern Munich coach Jonker, on the other hand, saw the team as responsible: "We wanted to control the game through possession and put pressure on England. But ultimately, the players have to implement this plan on the pitch," explained the 62-year-old.

It was already clear that the tournament would not bode well for the Netherlands. Back in January, the Dutch Football Association (KNVB) announced Jonker's dismissal after the European Championship – effectively making him a coach without a future. The term "lame duck" is often used in this context. In a podcast on Dutch broadcaster NOS, Jonker expressed his disappointment and surprise at the association's decision.

Whether and how quickly the communication problems within the Dutch squad can be resolved will be seen next Sunday. The Dutch will face the French, who are among the favorites for the title and underlined this status with a 2-1 victory over the reigning European champions from England in their opening match.

The game should therefore provide answers as to whether Jonker's team will be able to put aside their personal differences for the good of the team – or whether the tournament is already over for the Dutch women after the group stage.