Houston, June 20 -- Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman accepted responsibility for his side's disappointing opening draw against Japan and pledged to make better use of his substitutes as the Dutch side prepares for a crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F clash against Sweden on Saturday (Local Time).

The Netherlands were left frustrated after surrendering a late lead, eventually having a 2-2 draw with Japan, conceding an equaliser in the 89th minute after Koeman opted for a more defensive approach.

Speaking ahead of the match in Houston, the Dutch coach admitted his changes from the bench failed to have the desired effect.

"First of all, the impact or influence of the substitutions was not positive, and I am accountable for that of course,...