Hockey World Cup 2018, Netherlands vs Pakistan: 3 Reasons why the Netherlands won 5-1 

#1 High possession/High Pressing play from the Dutch

The complexion of the game changed completely with the Dutch enjoying some great possession

The match began on an even note with both teams testing out the opposition’s keeper. Some individual brilliance from Van Ass resulted in the Dutch heading into the interval with a 2-1 lead.

However, after half time, the complexion of the game changed completely with the Dutch enjoying some great possession.

Whenever the Netherlands lost the ball, they would get it back quickly with some intense pressing in the middle of the field from Jonas De Geus and captain Billy Bakker.

Pakistan’s circle penetrations reduced drastically in the second half as their forward line was always hurried in possession, leading to turnovers.

Rehan Butt’s plan of attacking the Dutch on the counter failed miserably due to high pressing from the Dutch.

It was only when De Geus was shown a yellow card in the later stages of the game that Pakistan enjoyed some possession and threatened the Dutch defence.

Almost all of Pakistani attacking threat came from the penalty corners as the forward line failed to create chances from open play.

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