Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk is upbeat ahead of Tuesday´s Euro 2024 last 16 meeting with Romania.
Virgil van Dijk urged his side to rediscover their "will to win" since the Netherlands have so far struggled in the tournament despite having a talented squad at their disposal.
The Netherlands, who were in Group D, qualified for the last 16 as one of the four best third-placed sides.
Van Dijk was criticised by former Dutch midfielder Rafael van der Vaart who lashed out at his "disgraceful performance" against Austria in the Netherlands´ final group game.
"I want him to show some passion," said the former player.
Van Dijk’s error led to Austria´s decisive third goal in the 3-2 win.
"I know I can do better and it should be better," admitted Van Dijk.
In the last 16, the Netherlands will face Romania, who surprised everyone by topping Group E.
The Dutch will have to significantly improve their performance if they want to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Euros for the first time since 2008.
With a win, a loss and a draw from three games, the Dutch have failed to impress so far.
"Things overall can and should be better," the Liverpool defender said after a 3-2 defeat to Austria, adding "maybe we´ve been overestimating ourselves".
Van Dijk also gave his assessment of the team´s attitude in the event.
"A lot had to be said and we had to analyse a lot.
"It was not the tactics where things went wrong. It was mainly the will to win, so we have talked about that -- and with harsh words," added Van Dijk.