Xavi brings courage to Netherlands

Xavi has instilled confidence in the Netherlands after a dominant second-half display against Greece, transforming a team that lacked boldness on the ball.

Xavi Hernández arrived as Netherlands coach to find a physically elite squad but one lacking confidence in possession. Players were hesitant to make forward passes, defaulting to sideways or backward options instead of taking risks.

In early October, the Dutch struggled in the first half against Greece in Thessaloniki. Six weeks later, a revitalised Oranje dismantled the same opponent in a performance reminiscent of their best football. Xavi identified the missing ingredient as "bravery"—the courage to make bold decisions on the ball. His formula appears to be working.