---
title: "NEC Trainer Schreuder Frustrated by Defensive Shortages After Telstar Loss"
url: https://projectchintan.com/article/nec-suffers-defeat-due-to-defensive-woes-dkj5j
publisher: Project Chintan
author: Project Chintan Newsroom
section: Sports
published: 2026-08-12T04:05:24.481Z
modified: 2026-08-12T07:00:14.964Z
language: en-IN
---

# NEC Trainer Schreuder Frustrated by Defensive Shortages After Telstar Loss

NEC suffered a 1-2 defeat to Telstar in their opening league match, highlighting the team's persistent defensive weaknesses. Coach Dick Schreuder expressed frustration over the lack of defenders, a recurring issue from the previous season.

## Key takeaways

- NEC lost their opening league game 1-2 to Telstar, struggling defensively.
- Coach Dick Schreuder highlighted a recurring lack of defenders as a major concern.
- The team must improve mentally and physically for upcoming matches, including European fixtures.

## What Happened

NEC began their Eredivisie campaign with a 1-2 home loss to Telstar. The team appeared sluggish in the first half, trailing 0-2 before halftime. Midfielder Darko Nejasmic was forced to play in defense due to the squad's limitations in that area. Kaj Sierhuis scored for NEC as a substitute, but the team could not equalize.

## Why It Matters

The defeat exposes ongoing defensive issues for NEC, which coach Dick Schreuder has warned about throughout the pre-season. This lack of depth in defense is a repeat of problems faced last season, raising concerns about the team's ability to compete effectively, especially with upcoming European fixtures.

## Background

The loss to Telstar occurred just before NEC's Champions League third qualifying round second leg match against Olympiakos. NEC played Olympiakos to a 0-0 draw in Greece earlier in the week. Coach Schreuder has repeatedly emphasized the need for defensive reinforcements, suggesting that the transfer window's closure on September 2 would provide the necessary additions.

## Key Facts

- NEC lost their first Eredivisie match of the season 1-2 against Telstar.

- Coach Dick Schreuder has voiced concerns about a lack of defenders.

- Darko Nejasmic, typically a midfielder, played in defense due to squad shortages.

- Kaj Sierhuis scored NEC's only goal as a substitute.

- NEC is preparing for a Champions League qualifying match against Olympiakos.

- The team drew 0-0 with Olympiakos in their previous European encounter.

- Schreuder noted a lack of sharpness and mental fortitude from his team in the first half against Telstar.

- Philippe Sandler, a key defender, was rested for the Telstar match due to injury concerns and the upcoming Olympiakos game.

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Canonical: https://projectchintan.com/article/nec-suffers-defeat-due-to-defensive-woes-dkj5j
Reported from: Multiple Sources