Netherlands coach expects attack-minded Morocco, says Dutch are no favorites

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman expects Morocco to pose a major attacking threat when the two sides meet in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 on Monday, warning that defensive lapses could prove costly against the Atlas Lions.

«From what we've seen, Morocco is a team that likes to attack», he said after the Netherlands' 3-1 victory over Tunisia. «They also have a right-back who is capable of playing in several attacking positions. We'll have to prepare well for that», he said.

«It will be an interesting match, and I don't know if we're the favorites against Morocco», he added.

Morocco secured second place in Group C behind Brazil after defeating Haiti 4-2, while the Netherlands topped Group F with victories over Sweden and Tunisia and a draw against Japan.

The Round of 16 clash will carry added significance for three Morocco players born in the Netherlands, Anass Salah-Eddine, Noussair Mazraoui and Sofyan Amrabat. Following Morocco's win over Haiti, Salah-Eddine and Ismaël Saibari both said they were looking forward to facing the Dutch.