Dutch coach Louis Van Gaal has been targeted by the media after the Netherlands' 2-0 defeat to Portugal left them in a precarious position in the Republic of Ireland's World Cup qualifying group. Wednesday's loss leaves the Dutch fourth in Group Two, with one point from two home games. "After the adventure against Ireland led to a 2-2 damp squib, the blow dealt by Portugal came down like a sledgehammer," said De Telegraaf.
The domestic media, normally sympathetic towards Van Gaal, attacked the new coach's experimental selection. "Tactical mistakes by Van Gaal and unnecessary risks led to an utterly painful and disgraceful defeat," said De Volkskrant.
Van Gaal had little choice but to make changes to his side after being hit by a spate of injuries, and he brought in several inexperienced players for the game. But his decision to move Marc Overmars to the right flank with relative newcomer Wilfred Bouma taking his place on the left was deemed much too risky.
He was also criticised for giving Chelsea's Mario Melchiot his debut and playing Marc van Bommel, earning only his second cap, beside Edgar Davids and behind Clarence Seedorf in midfield.
Van Gaal's response to the defeat was ominous for Ireland, who have yet to play the Dutch at Lansdowne Road. He said: "It (the defeat) means we now have to go and win the away games. It's not impossible but the pressure is on us."
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