After a strong second half, the Netherlands fought their way to a point in the Nations League match against Greece: 2-2. According to Noa Lang, who came on as a substitute after the break, there was more to be had than just one point. “We let two points slip away,” Lang told ESPN’s cameras after the match. “We turned it around in the second half, but we didn’t win, so disappointment is the overriding feeling.” Lang did make a good impact, though. “I was a threat, but I didn’t score or provide an assist, so there’s room for improvement,” the winger said self-critically. “Yes, I did have a key pass, but I have loads of them. People don’t see them because they don’t appear on the scoresheet.” Xavi sent Lang onto the pitch with a clear message. “Bring creativity, bring flair and show courage. The three lads who came on did a good job,” he said, praising Ryan Gravenberch and Tijjani Reijnders. The trio came on after half-time, following Xavi’s ‘outburst’ in the dressing room, according to Lang. “That’s how it should be. The way we performed in the first half has to stop. We want to be a top nation, but we struggle too often. An away game in Greece is tough, but as the Netherlands, you simply have to win here. This happens to us far too often.” “They wanted it more than us in the first half; that’s a worrying sign,” Lang concluded. Lang is pleased to be playing for the Dutch national team again. He feels he should have played much more often during his career. “I’ve missed out on many international matches, and that really gnaws at you. In my view, I’ve played far too few international matches. That’s down to the manager’s decisions.” “My development has stalled for a year,” Lang adds self-critically. “I’m the first to admit that.” It’s clear to him what he needs to do more of. “Guts, creativity and not giving a damn. Then I’ll add plenty more international caps to my tally.”   submitted by   /u/Roller95 [link]   [comments]