2026 World Cup: Hadj Moussa breaks Dutch hearts as Algeria punish wasteful Netherlands in pre-tournament friendly

The Netherlands were left frustrated in Rotterdam as a wasteful display in front of goal condemned Ronald Koeman’s side to a 1-0 friendly defeat against Algeria, with Feyenoord winger Anis Hadj Moussa delivering the decisive moment late on.

On a rain-soaked night, Oranje created enough opportunities to take control but repeatedly failed to convert. Donyell Malen came closest in a frantic opening spell, striking the post before later firing narrowly wide from close range.

Cody Gakpo also threatened, while Tijjani Reijnders saw an effort ruled out for offside, further adding to the hosts’ growing sense of frustration.

Koeman’s selection issues were evident from the outset, with Denzel Dumfries suspended and Jurrien Timber yet to link up with the squad. The tactical reshuffle saw Mats Wieffer deployed at right-back, while Crysencio Summerville was handed a debut on the flank in an experimental setup that lacked cohesion in key moments.

Koeman reshuffle fails to spark control

The Dutch boss attempted to shift momentum at half-time, introducing Memphis Depay, Nathan Ake, Jorrel Hato, Justin Kluivert and goalkeeper Robin Roefs in a significant wave of changes. The substitutions briefly injected energy, with Kluivert forcing a sharp save and Malen again squandering a promising opening early in the second half.

Despite increased possession and territorial dominance, the Netherlands never found rhythm in the final third. Algeria, disciplined and compact, absorbed pressure and waited for their moment as the game drifted towards a tense conclusion.

Hadj Moussa delivers late hammer blow

With four minutes remaining, the breakthrough arrived against the run of play. Feyenoord’s Anis Hadj Moussa curled a superb effort beyond Roefs, silencing the home crowd and completing a clinical counter-attack that punished Dutch inefficiency.

There was no response from Koeman’s side in the closing stages, as Algeria held firm to secure a statement victory.

For the Netherlands, the defeat raises questions about sharpness in attack and defensive balance, with just one remaining friendly against Uzbekistan before their World Cup opener against Japan.