Ibrahimovic blames Dutch coach Koeman for Netherlands’ shock exit

Former Sweden international and current pundit Zlatan Ibrahimovic has blamed Ronald Koeman after the Netherlands suffered a shock FIFA World Cup 2026 exit against Morocco on Tuesday.

Morocco reached the last 16 after defeating the Oranje in a penalty shootout at Estadio Monterrey in Mexico.

After the match, Ibrahimovic criticised Netherlands coach Koeman during an appearance on FOX Sports.

The former PSG, Barcelona and Manchester United striker said, “I think this loss is on Koeman because I didn’t recognise this Dutch team.

“He lost with an identity that is not the Dutch identity and that makes me angry. Lose with your identity… that’s who you are.”

Koeman, who represented the Netherlands 78 times between 1983 and 1994, has been in charge since 2023.

His future is now uncertain after the disappointing defeat and a performance that left many questioning the team’s direction.

In the match, Cody Gakpo gave the Netherlands a 1-0 lead in the 72nd minute, days after his girlfriend revealed the tragic loss of their unborn son during pregnancy.

However, the Dutch were denied victory when Issa Diop scored a stoppage-time equaliser to force extra-time.

Neither side managed to find a winner in the additional period, sending the Round of 32 clash to penalties.

Justin Kluivert, Quinten Timber and Crysencio Summerville missed their spot-kicks as Morocco advanced after Ismael Saibari converted the decisive penalty.

The African side will now face joint-hosts Canada at Houston Stadium on Saturday for a place in the quarter-finals.