Netherlands open their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group F campaign against Japan at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Sunday, 14 June 2026, with kick-off at 21:00 SAST. Ronald Koeman’s Dutch side enter as favourites, but Japan arrive on a six-game winning streak and with the confidence of a team in serious form.
Match details
| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Competition | 2026 FIFA World Cup — Group F opener |
| Date & kick-off | Sunday, 14 June 2026, 21:00 SAST |
| Venue | AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas, USA |
| Group | Group F |
The Dutch burden — and Japan’s momentum
No nation has lost more World Cup finals without winning the tournament than the Netherlands. Three final defeats, including the 1-0 loss to Spain in 2010, continue to frame the pressure that follows Oranje into every major tournament.
There is, however, a strong platform for Ronald Koeman’s side to build from. The Netherlands have not lost a World Cup opener since 1938 and are unbeaten in World Cup group-stage football since 1994. That record speaks to their consistency, preparation and ability to start tournaments well.
Their qualifying campaign was also convincing. The Dutch went unbeaten across eight matches, scoring 27 goals and conceding only four. With Virgil van Dijk leading the defence, Frenkie de Jong controlling midfield and Cody Gakpo and Memphis Depay providing attacking quality, the Netherlands have the spine of a side capable of going deep.
Japan, though, are not arriving as passengers. They come into this fixture on a six-game winning streak, having scored 11 goals and conceded just two during that run. They were also the first team to confirm qualification for the 2026 World Cup, underlining their consistency across the cycle.
This is Japan’s eighth consecutive World Cup appearance, and they are now an established tournament side. They have never beaten the Netherlands in three previous meetings, but they have rarely approached a fixture against the Dutch with this much momentum.
Group F also includes Sweden and Tunisia, making this opener important for both teams. The Netherlands will want to take early control of the group. Japan will see this as a chance to make a statement against one of Europe’s heavyweight nations.
Morocco, meanwhile, arrive as genuine contenders rather than romantic outsiders. Since the start of 2023, they have won 33 of 45 matches and lost only twice. They are ranked seventh in the world and remain one of the most consistent international teams of the last few years.
Their run to the semi-finals at Qatar 2022 changed how the football world views them. This is now a side with major tournament experience, defensive discipline, tactical identity and high-level players in key positions.
Achraf Hakimi remains one of the most dynamic fullbacks in world football, while Sofyan Amrabat gives Morocco control and aggression in midfield. Brahim Diaz adds creativity and technical quality in attack.
There are injury concerns, with Nayef Aguerd and Abde Ezzalzouli ruled out before the tournament, while Noussair Mazraoui is a doubt. Even so, Morocco’s squad depth gives them more resilience than most African sides have had at previous World Cups.
This Group C opener sets the tone for both teams. Brazil will want to make a statement early. Morocco will look to frustrate, absorb pressure and punish spaces on the break.
Team news
The Netherlands are without first-choice goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, who was injured in the pre-tournament warm-up against Uzbekistan. Mark Flekken is expected to step into the starting XI.
Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber has also been ruled out of the tournament, which leaves Koeman with a defensive adjustment to make. Virgil van Dijk remains the cornerstone of the back line, with Denzel Dumfries and Micky van de Ven expected to start.
In midfield, Frenkie de Jong and Tijani Reijnders should provide control, balance and progression. Cody Gakpo, who scored twice in the final warm-up match, is expected to keep his place in attack. Memphis Depay leads the line as the Netherlands’ all-time top scorer.
Netherlands expected XI: Flekken; Dumfries, Van Dijk, Van de Ven, left-back to be confirmed; Reijnders, De Jong; Gakpo, attacking midfielder to be confirmed, winger to be confirmed; Depay.
Japan are without Wataru Endo, whose absence is significant given his leadership and midfield organisation. Even so, Japan have enough energy and attacking form to cause problems.
Koki Ogawa, who has scored twice in his last five appearances, is expected to start alongside Ayase Ueda, who contributed to 10 goals during qualifying.
Japan expected XI: Goalkeeper to be confirmed; right-back to be confirmed, centre-back to be confirmed, centre-back to be confirmed, left-back to be confirmed; central midfielder to be confirmed, Endo replacement; Ogawa, Ueda, winger to be confirmed, winger to be confirmed.
Key stats
- Netherlands have lost three World Cup finals, the most by any nation yet to win the tournament.
- Netherlands have not lost a World Cup opener since 1938.
- Netherlands are unbeaten in World Cup group-stage football since 1994.
- Netherlands went unbeaten in qualifying with six wins and two draws.
- Netherlands scored 27 goals and conceded only four in qualifying.
- Netherlands have lost once in their last 13 matches.
- Bart Verbruggen and Jurrien Timber are ruled out for the Netherlands.
- Japan enter the tournament on a six-game winning streak.
- Japan have scored 11 goals and conceded two during that six-match winning run.
- Japan are appearing at their eighth consecutive World Cup.
- Japan are unbeaten in their last two World Cup openers.
- Japan were the first team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
- Wataru Endo is ruled out for Japan.
- Japan have never beaten the Netherlands.
- The last meeting between the sides ended 2-2 in November 2013.
Head-to-head
Netherlands and Japan have met three times, with the Dutch winning two matches and one ending in a draw. Japan have yet to beat the Netherlands.
The most recent meeting ended 2-2 in November 2013. Before that, the Netherlands beat Japan 1-0 in the 2010 World Cup group stage, a result that will still carry some historical weight heading into this fixture.
Our prediction
Netherlands have the stronger squad, deeper tournament pedigree and a remarkable record in World Cup openers. Their qualifying numbers were impressive, and with Van Dijk, De Jong, Gakpo and Depay available, Koeman has proven quality in every key area of the pitch.
The injury to Verbruggen does create a slight concern, while Timber’s absence removes another high-level defensive option. Against a Japan side in excellent form, those absences cannot be ignored.
Japan’s six-game winning streak makes them dangerous. Their pressing, speed and confidence in attack should give the Dutch defence uncomfortable moments, especially if they can disrupt the Netherlands’ build-up through midfield.
Still, the Netherlands’ overall quality and tournament experience should give them the edge. Japan are good enough to make this a contest, and their attacking form suggests they can trouble Oranje, but the Dutch remain the more likely winners.
Prediction: Both Teams To Score (BTTS) Yes at 1.78
Frequently asked questions
What time does Netherlands vs Japan kick off in South Africa?
Netherlands vs Japan kicks off at 21:00 SAST on Sunday, 14 June 2026, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
What is the Netherlands vs Japan head-to-head record?
Netherlands lead the series with two wins and one draw. Japan have never beaten the Netherlands across three previous meetings.
When did Netherlands and Japan last play each other?
The last meeting between Netherlands and Japan ended 2-2 in November 2013.
What group are Netherlands and Japan in at World Cup 2026?
Netherlands and Japan are in Group F alongside Sweden and Tunisia.
Where is Netherlands vs Japan being played?
The match is being played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, USA.
Who are the key players for Netherlands vs Japan?
Virgil van Dijk, Frenkie de Jong, Cody Gakpo and Memphis Depay are key players for the Netherlands. Japan’s key players include Ayase Ueda and Koki Ogawa, while Wataru Endo’s absence is a major talking point.
DOWNLOAD SP SCORE APP
Features:
Live Scores and Updates: Get instant access to live scores from a wide range of sports, including football, basketball, soccer, and more. Stay updated with minute-by-minute action and never miss a crucial play.
Statistical Insights: Dive deep into game statistics with detailed breakdowns. From player performance metrics to team stats, SP Score offers advanced analytics to enhance your understanding of every match.
Latest Sports News: Stay informed with up-to-date news stories and headlines. SP Score curates the most important and trending sports news, ensuring you’re always in the loop about your favorite teams and athletes.
App Download: SP Score Apps
SP Score Web: www.sportpesascore.com
📲 Follow us for live updates
TikTok: Sportpesa_za
Twitter: @SportPesaSA
Facebook: SportPesa South Africa
Telegram: SportPesa South Africa
Responsible gambling
No persons under the age of 18 are permitted to gamble. Winners know when to stop.
Contact the National Responsible Gambling Programme toll-free counselling line on 0800 006 008 or WhatsApp HELP to 076 675 0710.
SportPesa (Pty) Ltd. (Reg No: 2015/321094/07) is a licensed Bookmaker with the Western Cape Racing and Gambling Board under bookmaker license number 10183090‐011, issued on 01/07/2017 and is a registered Manufacturer under license number 10184430-012.