Gasperini Still Believes: Roma on a Mission to Chase Champions League

The Netherlands defeated Tunisia 3–1 in their final group match, securing first place and advancing to the round of 16. Goals came from an own goal by Skhiri, Brobbey, and van Hecke, while Mastouri scored for Tunisia. Donyell Malen, the AS Roma winger, played from the start on the right flank but remained goalless, being substituted in the 72nd minute for Summerville. Tunisia finished the tournament with zero points. The Netherlands will face Morocco in the round of 16 on 30 June at 3 a.m. Italian time. This sets up a Roma connection, as both sides are managed by figures linked to the Giallorossi. The match represents a significant moment for Malen, who will be eager to end his tournament campaign with a goal after failing to find the net in the group stage. Malen's performance comes amid Roma's broader mercato activity, with the club reportedly consolidating its squad ahead of the new season.

Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman explained his decision to replace Roma winger Donyell Malen at halftime during the Oranje's 5–1 win over Sweden in a World Cup qualifier. Malen was deployed on the wing in the first half but struggled with defensive duties as Sweden adjusted to a four-defender formation, prompting the change. Koeman said: "The first half concluded with a weaker phase of play, partly because Sweden began playing with four defenders. Our wingers kept pressing their centre-back, whereas usually the number 9s and 10s do that. Consequently, we found ourselves in serious trouble a couple of times. The defensive phase was also the reason for Malen's substitution; I believe Summerville is better defensively. We often talk with players about the need to recognise changes on the pitch more quickly. I understand the substitution is difficult for Donyell, but this is high-level football. A team performance is expected." The Roma striker had failed to score in pre-tournament friendlies and his opening match against Japan before facing Sweden. Koeman was quick to reassure supporters and the player himself, stating that Malen is not being scapegoated and may return as a centre-forward in upcoming matches. He also noted that striker Brobbey had experienced a minor hamstring issue, explaining the need for rotation.

Donyell Malen will play on the right wing for the Netherlands in their Group B match against Sweden, a fixture already crucial after drawing 0–0 against Japan in their opening game. Coach Ronald Koeman has reshaped the attacking setup, positioning Gakpo on the left, Malen on the right, and Brobbey of Sunderland as the central striker. This marks a change from the first match, where Malen operated in a more central role. Koeman's tactical adjustment aims to generate more attacking opportunities as the Netherlands seeks vital goals in what is effectively a knockout stage match. Malen, who plays for AS Roma in Serie A, will be crucial to the team's attacking threat on the flank rather than leading the line. The strategic shift reflects Koeman's desire to optimize the team's attacking balance while still utilizing Malen's pace and technical abilities in a different capacity. The match against Sweden kicks off at 19:00 local time and represents a critical encounter for the Netherlands' tournament progression.