Ronald Koeman says Netherlands have taken enormous steps after France win

Image: Memphis Depay celebrates scoring for Netherlands

Ronald Koeman said Netherlands have taken "enormous steps" after they beat world champions France 2-0 on Friday in the UEFA Nations League.

The Netherlands have failed to qualify for the last two major international tournaments, but have enjoyed a resurgence under Koeman.

A draw on Monday against Germany will be enough for them to finish top of their Nations League group due to their superior head to head with France.

Netherlands 2-0 France
Deschamps: France didn't show up

Former Southampton and Everton boss Koeman said: "This was a complete match at the very highest level.

Advertisement
Watch highlights as Netherlands beat France

"I was not expecting a perfect match from our side but that's really what it was. We were very, very good.

"I was surprised by the France line-up and the way they played, but our match was perfect. We dominated the match for 90 minutes.

Also See:

"I also did not expect that this team would be as far in their reading of a match. We have shown on such a night that we have made enormous steps. From the beginning to the end we played really well."

Live UEFA Nations League

Georginio Wijnaldum struck on the stroke of half-time and Memphis Depay chipped home a cheeky stoppage-time penalty to secure victory in Rotterdam.

Netherlands were only denied an even bigger win by a strong performance from France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

"This win shows the spirit of the team, the quality of the players we have," said Depay.

"It shows that we have a bright future, we have to continue like this. This is just the start."

Play Super 6

Predict 6 correct scores for your chance to win £250K.

Outbrain