France vs Netherlands: 5 Talking Points, UEFA Nations League 2018/19

#5 Tactical flexibility wins the day for France

France v Croatia - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Final

Ronald Koeman will be pleased what he saw from his Netherlands team, particularly in the light of their 4-1 defeat in Paris when they last visited, but while they threatened briefly to cause a scare in this encounter, they were ultimately outclassed by the world’s top team.

France showed why they are the world champions in this encounter. Though often lamented as a dour and defensive side during their run at Russia 2018, they showed their capabilities as an attacking unit in this game, dominating the opening period, during which they should have opened up a greater lead.

The Netherlands improved after the interval, and though it was still a shock when Babel drew the visiting side level, there were signs that it was coming.

France did not dally and were soon back in the lead when substitute Benjamin Mendy set up Giroud with a delicious cross, prompting another switch in tactics.

Deschamps’ men were able to become the pragmatic side that was evident in Russia, shutting the game down and, though ceding territory and possession, rarely allowing their opponents scoring opportunities.

The Netherlands could not boast the breadth of depth of options their hosts had and were unable to find a route back into the match for a second time, despite exerting pressure.

Perhaps this was not the masterclass that was on display just a few short weeks ago, but it was enough for the home side to take the points.