Netherlands 0-1 Mexico: 5 talking points as Frank de Boer era begins with a loss | International Friendly

#3. Mexico's counter-attacks

Raul Jimenez was Mexico's main man up front

Mexico's attack, led by Wolves sensation Raul Jimenez, gave Virgil van Dijk & co. enough scares in the first half. Opting for a high press, wingers Jesus Corona and Rodolfo Pizarro found a lot of space behind the inexperienced Dutch full-backs, while Jimenez's finishing prowess kept the central defenders at bay.

These runs and speedy counters ultimately led to the only goal of the game, when Nathan Ake was caught out by Jimenez in a set-piece situation. Mexico's tactic of sitting back and breaking on the counter worked beautifully as the Netherlands lacked creativity in the middle of the park to mount any sort of comeback.

#2. Memphis Depay needs more support

Memphis Depay was the only positive for the Netherlands against Mexico

Lyon forward Memphis Depay was the only shining light in an otherwise lacklustre Dutch front-three. Ryan Babel only showed flashes of brilliance while Feyenoord man Steven Berghuis was far from his best. With the absence of Frenkie de Jong and the poor form of Gini Wjnaldum, the Netherlands were largely one-dimensional going forward. They failed to stamp their authority in midfield and, hence, could not break down a resolute Mexican unit.

Right-back Hans Hateboer, who usually plays an attacking right wing-back for Serie A side Atalanta, did not offer much going forward either. This made Frank de Boer's side seem all the more sluggish and out of sync. Substitute Luuk de Jong did offer something different with his aerial presence but with only a few good crosses, he didn't make much of an impact.

#1. Netherland's centre-back conundrum

Virgil van Dijk was taken off at half-time against Mexico

Virgil van Dijk was taken off at halftime. Yes, you read that right. The Liverpool hero, Dutch captain and Premier League champion, one of the main pillars of this Netherlands team, was taken off at half-time. His centre-back partner Stefan de Vrij was also substituted from the game. The two players made way for young duo Nathan Ake and Joel Veltman.

This is quite an unusual sight in any big-ticket game. Fortunately for De Boer, fans may cut him some slack since the fixture was his first game in charge and was just a friendly. However, going forward, he will have to figure out who his best centre-back pairing is.

With Matthijs de Ligt also in the fray, he does have an option to play a back-three. These questions need to be answered soon, especially with the UEFA Nations League games coming thick and fast.