The Netherlands begin another quest for an elusive first FIFA World Cup title when they take on an in-form Japan side capable of causing problems for any nation on the biggest stage.

Oranje Chasing Long-Awaited Glory

Few nations have experienced as much World Cup heartbreak as the Netherlands. The Dutch have reached three finals but remain without a trophy, earning the unwanted distinction of losing more World Cup finals than any other country without ever lifting the famous trophy.

Now led by Oranje legend Ronald Koeman, the Netherlands arrive at the 2026 tournament determined to finally end that wait. Koeman’s side cruised through qualification unbeaten, winning six and drawing two of their eight matches while scoring 27 goals and conceding just four.

History also favours the Dutch in tournament openers. They have not lost their opening World Cup fixture since 1938, recording seven wins and two draws since then. Their group-stage consistency is equally impressive, with the Netherlands unbeaten in 16 World Cup group matches since 1994, winning 12 and drawing four – the longest active streak of any nation.

Japan Looking to Upset Another European Giant

Japan have built a reputation for punching above their weight on the international stage and arrive in North America as one of the tournament’s most intriguing outsiders.

The Samurai Blue were the first nation to secure qualification for the 2026 finals and have maintained their momentum with six consecutive friendly victories. Those wins include impressive triumphs over Brazil and England, further reinforcing their credentials as potential giant-killers.

This marks Japan’s eighth successive World Cup appearance, although they continue to search for a breakthrough beyond the last 16. Despite playing more World Cup matches than any other nation without reaching the quarter-finals, recent performances suggest they are capable of challenging the established powers.

Japan can also draw confidence from their recent World Cup record against European opposition. At Qatar 2022, they defeated both Germany and Spain and remained unbeaten in normal time against European sides throughout the tournament.

Head-to-Head

Japan are still searching for their first victory against the Netherlands, having drawn one and lost two of their previous three meetings.

One of those defeats came at the 2010 World Cup, when the Dutch edged a tightly contested group-stage encounter 1-0.

Key Statistics

• The Netherlands need just four more goals to reach 100 goals at World Cup finals.
• The Dutch have conceded exactly one goal in each of their last four matches.
• Seven of Japan’s last eight victories have come with a clean sheet.
• Seven of Japan’s last nine World Cup matches have seen both teams score.

Players to Watch

Memphis Depay remains the focal point of the Dutch attack. The Netherlands’ all-time leading scorer has netted 55 international goals, including three at World Cup finals. He was also his country’s leading scorer during qualification with eight goals and contributed four assists.

For Japan, Ayase Ueda could prove crucial. The striker was directly involved in ten goals during qualifying, scoring eight and providing two assists. Remarkably, Japan have not lost any match in which Ueda has appeared since February 2024, recording 12 wins and three draws during that run.

Team News

The Netherlands have suffered two significant setbacks ahead of the tournament. Defender Jurriën Timber has been ruled out of the World Cup, while first-choice goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen sustained an injury during their final warm-up match.

Japan have also lost an influential figure, with captain Wataru Endo withdrawing from the squad before subsequently announcing his retirement from international football.

Prediction

The Netherlands possess greater tournament pedigree and remain deserved favourites, but Japan’s recent record against elite opposition cannot be ignored. The Samurai Blue have repeatedly shown they can rise to the occasion on the biggest stage and their defensive organisation could frustrate the Dutch.

With injuries affecting key members of the Netherlands squad and Japan arriving in outstanding form, an upset may be on the cards.

Prediction: Netherlands 1-2 Japan

Betting Angle

While the Netherlands are understandably favourites with the bookmakers, the value may lie with Japan. Their recent victories over top-class opposition suggest they are more than capable of securing another major scalp, making Japan to Win an appealing outsider selection.