Netherlands and Japan kick off in Group of Death with knockout hopes on the line
The Netherlands and Japan have kicked off their 2026 World Cup campaign in Arlington, Texas, in a group that also features Sweden and Tunisia. Both sides know the stakes: a win would go a long way to securing a knockout berth.
Group of death
The Netherlands and Japan meet in a Group G opener that many are calling the toughest at this World Cup. Sweden and Tunisia complete the quartet, ensuring minimal margin for error. A victory for either team tonight would be a significant step toward the round of 16, while a defeat leaves very little room for recovery.
Japan's red-hot form
Japan arrive in the United States as one of the tournament's form sides. Since completing their qualification campaign a year ago, they have won nine of twelve matches, including first-ever victories over Brazil and England. Five straight wins leading into the finals have lifted expectations that this could be the year Japan finally reach a quarter-final.
Dutch pedigree under the radar
The Netherlands carry the weight of being arguably the best nation never to lift the trophy, with three lost finals to their name.
The Netherlands are probably the best team never to win the World Cup and definitely the only team to lose three finals without winning one.
Despite that history, the current squad has shown resilience. They stretched eventual champions Argentina in the 2022 quarter-final and pushed England all the way in a dramatic Euro 2024 semi-final.
Lineups and early action
Japan start with Suzuki in goal and a back three of Taniguchi, Watanabe and H. Ito, while Doan, Kubo and Maeda provide the creative thrust. The Dutch line up with Verbruggen between the posts, Van Dijk marshalling the defence, De Jong pulling the midfield strings and Malen leading the line. As of the opening quarter of an hour, the game remains goalless with both teams feeling each other out in the Texas heat.
