Korea DPR v. Netherlands: Directness meets variability

In part 4, the former Japan women’s head coach Asako Takakura anticipates key tactical battles in the upcoming final between Korea DPR and the Netherlands.

Takakura guided Japan’s U-17s to glory at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in 2014. Takakura also led Japan’s U-20s to a third-place finish at the 2016 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.

Asako Takakura: As this is the second encounter between the two sides, one point of interest will be whether there are any tactical changes or adjustments. However, Korea DPR will likely stick to their style, relying on their high technical ability, formidable physical strength, and fierce determination to win, just as they have done previously.

(1/2) Figure 3: Korea DPR (attacking from left to right) use a combination of long, direct passes through central channels to progress play up the pitch.

(2/2) Figure 4: Conversely, the Netherlands favour a slower build, with the arrows crossing in the opposition half visualising their attempts to break the opposition down by switching play into space found in wide areas.

The Netherlands, buoyed by narrow victories over powerhouses like the USA and France, will carry a lot of confidence into the match and will look to exploit their strength in attacking down the flanks. Both sides favour a solid, methodical approach rather than flashy play. If one were to draw a distinction, it would be a clash between Korea DPR’s tendency to break down defences through the centre and the Netherlands’ preference for attacking down the wings.

The key to the match will be whether the Netherlands can hold their own against Korea DPR's absolute strength in 1v1 battles and how long they can keep the score at 0-0. The decisive factors will be where the Netherlands position their defensive block, how long they can withstand the pressure, and when they transition to attack.

Every minute spent on the international stage for the first time provides young players with an invaluable learning experience that no amount of training can replicate

The progress made by the Netherlands can largely be attributed to facing formidable opponents such as Korea DPR and Mexico during the group stage. Every minute spent on the international stage for the first time provides young players with an invaluable learning experience that no amount of training can replicate. Exposure to world-class technical ability and intensity likely enhanced their pace of play, decision-making speed and team cohesion.