Netherlands vs. Japan: World Cup Preview, Lineups & Streaming

Charlie Zschau Updated: 8 hours ago

The Netherlands kick off their 2026 World Cup campaign against a tactically astute and technically skilled Japanese side.

While the 'Oranje' are considered the favorites in Group F, Japan presents a formidable challenge, boasting a squad filled with players seasoned in Europe's top competitive leagues.

Ronald Koeman's squad has been hit hard by injuries, creating significant setbacks, particularly in central defense. Key players such as Jurriën Timber, Stefan de Vrij, Matthijs de Ligt, Jerdy Schouten, and Xavi Simons are all sidelined. Goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen is also a doubt for the opener, and while Memphis Depay has returned to the squad, he is still lacking match fitness.

Japan also arrives at the tournament with notable absences. The Samurai Blue will be without their most dangerous winger, Kaoru Mitoma, and their captain and midfield engine, Wataru Endo. These losses may force the team to adopt a more compact and conservative approach. However, the presence of Real Sociedad's Takefusa Kubo could still provide a burst of speed and creativity in their attack.

Netherlands vs. Japan: Key Statistics

In their last five matches, the Netherlands have recorded three wins, one draw, and one loss.

Japan enters the tournament on a six-game winning streak, with victories over Iceland, England, Scotland, Bolivia, Ghana, and Brazil. So far in 2026, Japan has a goal difference of +3 (3 goals for, 0 against), while the Netherlands has a goal difference of +1 (5 goals for, 4 against).

Head-to-Head History

16/11/23: Japan 2-2 Netherlands
19/06/10: Netherlands 1-0 Japan
05/09/09: Netherlands 3-0 Japan

Predicted Lineups

Netherlands (4-3-3): Flekken; Dumfries, Van Hecke, Van Dijk, Van de Ven; Gravenberch, De Jong, Reijnders; Summerville, Malen, Gakpo.

Coach: Ronald Koeman

Japan (3-4-2-1): Suzuki; Itakura, Taniguchi, Tomiyasu; Sugawara, Tanaka, Sano, Ito; Doan, Kubo; Ueda.

Coach: Hajime Moriyasu

Team News: Injuries and Suspensions

The Netherlands will be without the injured Bart Verbruggen. Japan currently has no reported injuries or suspensions.

Match Details: Date, Time, and How to Watch

The 2026 World Cup match between the Netherlands and Japan is scheduled for Sunday, June 14, at 4:00 PM ET at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington.

Netherlands vs. Japan will be broadcast on Fox in the United States. A Spanish speaking broadcast will be available on Peacock and Telemundo.

Streaming will be available on the Fox Sports website, the Fox One streaming platform, and YouTube TV.

Canadian audience's can tune in on TSN, and TSN+.