How the Netherlands Dominates Orange Glory in PES 2011
What is Orange Glory?
Orange Glory is the special “National Team” mode introduced in Pro Evolution Soccer 2011. It lets you take control of a country’s best‑available squad, with the Dutch side receiving a surprising amount of attention from both fans and the game’s developers. From the moment you start a match, the Netherlands feels more like a well‑orchestrated unit than a collection of individual stars.
Why the Dutch Team Stands Out
Several factors combine to give the Netherlands a clear edge in Orange Glory. First, Konami gave the Dutch squad higher overall ratings than most other nations, especially in midfield creativity and wing play. Second, the team’s tactical presets lean toward a fluid 4‑3‑3 that mirrors real‑world Dutch “Total Football,” allowing quick transitions and interchangeable positions. Finally, the roster includes a handful of players whose in‑game attributes—pace, dribbling, and passing vision—are among the highest in the entire game.
Key Players to Build Around
- Wesley Sneijder (CM) – The midfield maestro boasts an exceptional passing rating. Use him as the pivot for through balls and set‑piece deliveries.
- Arjen Robben (RW) – His speed and dribble stats make him a nightmare on the flank. Cut inside and unleash his powerful shot.
- Robin van Persie (ST) – A clinical finisher with a knack for curling shots. Position him centrally to exploit his heading and finishing.
Crafting the Ideal Formation
Although the default 4‑3‑3 works well out of the box, many seasoned players tweak it to a 4‑2‑3‑1 when facing defensively disciplined opponents. Drop one central midfielder deeper to shield the backline, while the other three stay high, stretching the opposition’s shape. This hybrid approach keeps the Dutch pressing intensity while preserving a safety net against counter‑attacks.
Step‑by‑step setup
- Assign van Bommel and Sneijder to the double‑pivot roles.
- Place Robben on the left wing (he can cut in on his stronger right foot) and set the opposite wing to a fast, less‑used player like Rafael van der Vaart for variety.
- Position van Persie as the lone striker, but enable the “Free‑Roam” option so he can drift wide when needed.
Gameplay Tips for Maintaining Control
Even with a strong roster, success in Orange Glory hinges on exploiting the team’s strengths. Here are a few practical pointers:
- Utilize quick one‑touch passing. The Dutch midfield excels at rapid exchanges; press the “One‑Touch Pass” button to keep the ball moving and tire the opponent’s defense.
- Attack the full‑backs. Both Dutch wingers possess high crossing accuracy. When you see an opponent’s full‑back stepping forward, feed a low cross into the box for van Persie’s aerial threat.
- Switch to “High Press” after losing possession. The AI’s defensive line often sits deep; a swift press can force a mistake and win the ball back in dangerous areas.
- Take advantage of set‑pieces. Sneijder’s free‑kick precision is among the best in the game. Aim for the top corner rather than the traditional near‑post placement.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Newcomers sometimes rely too heavily on individual brilliance, overlooking the importance of spacing. Over‑crowding the midfield can clog passing lanes and make the team vulnerable to long balls. Also, remember that the Dutch defense, while solid, lacks the highest pace ratings. If you push too many players forward, a quick counter‑attack can expose the backline. Balancing forward aggression with occasional defensive regrouping is essential.
When to Switch Tactics Mid‑Game
If the opponent adopts a compact 4‑4‑2, consider shifting to a 3‑5‑2 formation. Drop a winger into a midfield role, creating overloads in the central third. This tweak forces the opposition to defend two strikers, opening space for Robben’s runs on the flank. The change can be executed through the in‑game “Tactics” menu without pausing the match, preserving momentum.
FAQ
What makes the Netherlands better than Spain in Orange Glory?
The Dutch squad generally has higher pace and passing ratings, especially on the wings. Spain’s strength lies in possession, but its slower defenders can be exploited by the Dutch’s rapid transitions.
Can I succeed with a different formation?
Yes. While 4‑3‑3 is the default, many players find success with 4‑2‑3‑1 or 3‑5‑2, depending on the opponent’s style. Experimentation is encouraged.
Is it worth upgrading player cards in the online mode?
Upgrading key players like Sneijder and Robben can provide a noticeable boost, especially in passing and shooting accuracy. However, the base ratings are already strong enough for solo play.
How do I defend against fast counter‑attacks?
Activate the “Drop Back” defensive setting when you lose possession in your half. Position van Bommel as the first line of defense to intercept through balls, and keep your full‑backs slightly deeper until you regain control.
