Graham Potter: "The Dutch are Superior. We Learn, But Still Live"
June 21, 2026 · Global
Graham Potter, coach of the Swedish national team, analyzed his team's defeat against the Netherlands and emphasized the importance of improving in defense and maintaining self-confidence.
The Swedish national team coach, Graham Potter, gave his response after the heavy 5-1 defeat against the Netherlands. He expressed disappointment with the team's performance in the first half. "We were very disappointed with the opening period of the match. This should be a valuable experience, a big match and a good opportunity. This was a challenge for us, but the Dutch played a very good game. On the first goal, we were too high in pressing and left too much space. After that, we became a bit passive and lacked confidence in what we had to do," said Potter.
Potter added: "Our reaction after the first half was good. We didn't deserve to win the game, but we have to take positive things from this." He also noted that the three goals scored by the opponents had similarities. "We clearly have to improve, especially with the first goal which came from a long ball and we were passive. Looking back? Of course, there is always something that can be improved. We lacked stability and consistency. However, every game is different, sometimes we have to learn from certain situations to improve. At this level, football can bring out great players. We have to congratulate the Netherlands, they played very well."
Regarding Isak, Potter stated, "Offensively, he's definitely had a positive impact, but we have to think about how to strengthen our defense as a team. Our initial plan went well, but after conceding two goals, we had to change our way of thinking. The rest helped us, we were able to move better at the back. We had a few chances and tried to respond to them, especially at the end of the first half. They attacked very well and made the difference. We might still have lost, but we're still proud of the effort that everyone put in."
Asked about the differences between the games against Tunisia and the Netherlands, Potter replied, "When you concede a goal in five minutes... it can change everything. It's a combination of factors, when you concede a goal in a short space of time, it's natural to look passive. They're a top team, we have to give them credit, but we've also learned a lot from this experience."
Regarding the goal of the tournament, he stressed, "It's not the result we wanted, but in the end we are still alive and have to play one more game to get the three points. When you need to improve, you have to face games like this."
Potter also spoke about the balance between attack and defence, "We have to find a balance between the two, maybe we didn't have that today. However, in front of us is a very good team, so defensively we have to be stronger. Sometimes we think there are tactical solutions, but sometimes the opposition players are better. They are strong everywhere, we have to accept that."
Regarding Japan, Potter stated, "I've seen their game against the Netherlands and they are a good team. Of course, we want to do better and prepare well, not only about who we will face in the round of 16, but we have to get a win first."
Regarding the atmosphere of the match, he concluded with, "Amazing. But maybe too much orange (laughs)."