Netherlands and Japan Lineups Revealed

The Netherlands and Japan are set to clash in an intriguing opening Group F encounter at the 2026 World Cup, held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Sweden and Tunisia complete the group.

In their final three warm-up matches before the tournament, the 'Oranje' secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Uzbekistan, suffered a 1-0 defeat to Algeria, and drew 1-1 with Ecuador. Japan, on the other hand, enters the match in exceptional form, having won their last six friendly games, including impressive victories against Brazil (3-2) and England (1-0).

Looking back at their history, the two nations were also drawn together in the 2010 World Cup group stage. On that occasion, the Netherlands emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 win, courtesy of a Wesley Sneijder goal, which remains their only official World Cup meeting.

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has faced some challenges, arriving at the championship without the injured Xavi Simons, Jerdy Schouten, and Jurrien Timber. Today, the Netherlands will field the exact same lineup that faced Uzbekistan, playing in a 4-3-3 formation. The 'Oranje' attack will be spearheaded by Crysencio Summerville, Donyell Malen, and Cody Gakpo. In midfield, Ryan Gravenberch, Tijjani Reijnders, and Frenkie de Jong will feature.

Japan is also weakened, with stars Kaoru Mitoma and Takumi Minamino missing the tournament due to injuries, and captain Wataru Endo suffering a last-minute setback. The 'Samurai Blue' attack will be led by Feyenoord striker Ayase Ueda, supported by Takefusa Kubo and Daizen Maeda.