The Netherlands “have discussed a plan” for containing Christian Pulisic during their knockout clash against the USMNT, according to wing-back Denzel Dumfries.

He said: “Yeah of course we discussed a plan but we cannot tell you the plan of course, that would be stupid. But he is one of the leaders of this group and of course he is one of the best players of the USA.”

Midfielder Marten de Roon was also asked about the challenge of facing the energetic American duo of Weston McKennie and Tyler Adams.

“I have already played a few times against McKennie in Italy and they have always been battles,” he replied. “Plus he is a runner and has a lot of energy. I look forward to it because I think I’m also an energetic guy who likes to run a lot so it will be a nice battle.”

The USMNT haven’t conceded from open play yet, but the Netherlands, who scored five goals in the group stage, are confident they can break that run.

“We haven’t worked on it in training yet because yesterday was the day after the game so we didn’t train so much but we analysed it and I think the USA is defending very, very well,” said De Roon.

“They didn’t concede (from open play) so they are doing something good for sure. We analysed it and think we have the opportunities and possibilities to score without a set-piece.”