DALLAS, June 13: The Netherlands and Japan will launch their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F campaign when they meet in Dallas, with both sides targeting a place in the knockout stages.
Drawn alongside Sweden and Tunisia, the two nations are expected to be among the contenders for the top two spots in the group, which would guarantee progression to the next round.
The Netherlands arrive at the tournament with ambitions of finally lifting the World Cup trophy after coming close on several occasions. The Dutch have finished runners-up three times, in 1974, 1978 and 2010, but are still searching for their first world title.
Making their 12th World Cup appearance, the Oranje can take confidence from an impressive group-stage record, having remained unbeaten in their last 16 World Cup group matches dating back to 1994. Head coach Ronald Koeman, who captained the Netherlands during the 1994 tournament in the United States, now leads the side into another World Cup on North American soil.
Japan, meanwhile, enter the competition in excellent form and with growing expectations. The Samurai Blue are appearing in their eighth consecutive World Cup and have built momentum through a series of strong performances, winning six successive friendlies ahead of the tournament.
The Asian powerhouse impressed during qualification, scoring 54 goals while conceding just three. They were also the first team, apart from the three co-host nations, to secure a place at the finals. (Agencies)
