Match Overview and Early Play
The Netherlands commenced their World Cup 2026 campaign against Japan at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The match, part of Group F, saw both teams seeking a strong start in a group that also includes Sweden and Tunisia. The Dutch, led by coach Ronald Koeman, entered the tournament with aspirations of making a significant impact on the global stage.
Early in the match, the play was described as cagey, with neither side immediately finding a breakthrough. After the initial minutes, Malen had an early opportunity, firing a powerful effort that was saved by Zion Suzuki, leading to a corner. This marked one of the few clear chances in the opening quarter of the game.
As the first half progressed, the score remained 0-0. Around the 20-minute mark, De Jong began to influence the game more, orchestrating Dutch attacks and distributing the ball across the field. He aimed to create penetrating passes into the pockets for players like Reijnders and the wide men.
First Half Action and Opportunities
The match reached the 31-minute mark without an opener. Gakpo attempted to find Dumfries at the far post, but the right-back’s header went over the top. Shortly after, Malen won the ball in midfield and advanced down the right wing, earning a corner after being challenged by Tanguchi.
A significant chance arose in the 35th minute when Reijnders delivered an outswinger. Malen made the initial contact, which Suzuki spilled, but no Dutch player was in position to capitalize on the rebound. Moments later, in the 37th minute, Reijnders’ set-piece delivery found Dumfries at the back post, who knocked it down for Gakpo. However, Gakpo’s stretch shot went over the bar.
Dumfries showed increased ambition on the right side around the 40-minute mark, attempting a cross that was blocked by Nakamura. Japan then had their clearest sight of goal in the 43rd minute when a cross fell to Nakamura at the far post. After controlling the ball, Nakamura’s strike went wide. The first half concluded with three added minutes, and the score remained 0-0.
Team News and Expectations
For the Netherlands, Lutsharel Geertruida was a late addition to the squad, replacing Jurrien Timber, who was sidelined due to a groin injury. The predicted lineup for the Dutch featured Verbruggen in goal, with a defensive line of Dumfries, Van Hecke, Van Dijk, and Van de Ven. The midfield included De Jong, Gravenberch, and Reijnders, supporting an attacking trio of Malen, Depay, and Gakpo.
Japan faced their own injury concerns, with Kaoru Mitoma (hamstring) and Takumi Minamino (knee) absent, and Wataru Endo (foot) withdrawing before the tournament. Their predicted lineup included Z Suzuki in goal, a back three of Watanabe, Itakura, and H Ito. The midfield featured Doan, Kamada, Tanaka, and Nakamura, with Kubo, Ueda, and Maeda leading the attack.
The Netherlands have a historical advantage against Japan, having never lost to them in three previous encounters, with two wins and one draw. Their last World Cup meeting in 2010 saw the Dutch secure a 1-0 victory in Group E, with Wesley Sneijder scoring the only goal. The most recent match between the two nations, in 2013, ended in a 2-2 draw.
Japan, often considered dark horses, aimed to build on their performance in the 2022 World Cup where they topped their group ahead of Spain and Germany. Under coach Hajime Moriyasu, they have developed a reputation for being a difficult team to beat. Their strong form includes a seven-game unbeaten run and a recent 1-0 friendly victory over England. The match kicked off at 9pm BST on Sunday, June 14, at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington.
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Source: standard.co.uk
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