Koeman steps down as Netherlands coach after World Cup shoot-out exit

Ronald Koeman is no longer head coach of the Netherlands after the team’s 2026 World Cup campaign ended against Morocco in the last 32. The Dutch side went out on penalties in Monterrey after a 1-1 draw following extra time.

The exit was a sharp turn after a strong group stage, with the Netherlands finishing top of Group F and recording a 5-1 win over Sweden. Against Morocco, they were close to reaching the last 16 before Issa Diop’s stoppage-time equaliser pushed the tie beyond normal time.

Koeman’s departure closes his second period leading the national team. He had also managed Oranje from February 2018 to August 2020 before moving to Barcelona.

A statement attributed to the Dutch Football Federation said Koeman framed the decision around the timing being right and his wish to spend more time with his family. For the Netherlands, the immediate question is how quickly the federation can reset after a tournament that began with promise but ended abruptly.