Match preview: Netherlands vs Japan

The Netherlands begin their Group F campaign at the 2026 World Cup with a meeting against Japan at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, carrying an impressive record in tournament openers. The Dutch have avoided defeat in each of their last nine first matches at the World Cup, collecting seven victories and two draws during that sequence. Their most recent opening-game loss dates back to 1938, when Czechoslovakia claimed a 3-0 success.

Their consistency in the group phase has been equally noteworthy. The Oranje are unbeaten across 16 consecutive World Cup group-stage fixtures, recording 12 wins and four draws. The last time they were defeated at this stage of the competition came in 1994 in the United States, when Belgium secured a narrow 1-0 win in Orlando. Interestingly, Dick Advocaat, now set to lead Curaçao at this tournament, was in charge of the Dutch side on that occasion.

After missing out on qualification for the 2018 finals, Netherlands returned four years later and reached the quarter-finals. This year marks their 12th appearance at the global tournament, where they continue to chase a first world title despite having reached the final in 1974, 1978, and 2010.

History and key figures favour the Dutch

Few nations can match the World Cup efficiency of the Netherlands. They have won 30 of their 55 matches in the competition, producing a success rate of 54.5%. Before the start of the 2026 tournament, only Brazil and Germany possessed a better record. The Dutch are also approaching another milestone, needing just four more goals to reach a century of World Cup strikes.

This competition represents Ronald Koeman’s first experience leading the national team at a World Cup. The former defender previously represented his country at the tournaments in 1990 and 1994 and guided the Netherlands at Euro 2024.

In attack, Memphis Depay arrives as one of the side’s leading threats. During qualification, he finished as the team’s top scorer with eight goals while also sharing first place for assists with four.

Last 5 Netherlands matches stats

Japan target another memorable group-stage campaign

Japanese travel to Arlington with confidence built on their performances in recent editions of the competition. The Samurai Blue defeated both Germany and Spain during the group phase in Qatar and have won the opening match at each of the last two World Cups, overcoming Colombia in 2018 before repeating the feat against Germany four years later.

Despite those achievements, Japan is still seeking a breakthrough beyond the round of 16. No nation has played more World Cup matches without reaching the quarterfinals, with their total standing at 25. This tournament also extends their run to eight consecutive appearances, a streak surpassed among Asian nations only by South Korea.

The qualification campaign under Hajime Moriyasu was highly productive. Japan scored 51 goals in the AFC section, excluding three awarded from a 3-0 result against North Korea. They were also the first non-host nation to secure qualification for the finals.

Several players played major roles on that road to the World Cup. Takefusa Kubo contributed 12 goal involvements, while Junya Ito registered 11 and Ayase Ueda reached double figures with 10. Veteran defender Yūto Nagatomo could also enter the record books, as the 39-year-old is in line to become the first Asian player to appear at five World Cups.

Last 5 Japan matches stats

Previous meetings and outlook for Group F

This contest represents only the second World Cup encounter between the two countries. Their previous meeting came during the 2010 group stage, when a goal from Wesley Sneijder secured a 1-0 Dutch victory. Netherlands later advanced all the way to the final before finishing runners-up to Spain.

Across all competitions, Japan has yet to defeat the Dutch, drawing one and losing two of their three meetings. However, they demonstrated their ability to compete with European opposition at the previous World Cup, avoiding defeat in normal playing time against Germany, Spain, and Croatia.

Past H2H Results

Prediction and expected outcome

The Netherlands enter this match as deserved favourites thanks to their strong World Cup pedigree, lengthy unbeaten run in group-stage matches, and greater overall tournament experience. Ronald Koeman’s side possesses quality throughout the squad, while Memphis Depay’s form in qualifying suggests they have the attacking edge needed to break down a disciplined Japanese defence.

Japan should not be underestimated, however. The Samurai Blue have developed a reputation for causing problems for elite opponents, as demonstrated by victories over Germany and Spain at the previous World Cup. Their pace, organisation and collective play make them one of the most dangerous teams outside the traditional favourites.

The most likely scenario is a competitive and tactically disciplined contest, with Japan remaining in the game for long periods before Dutch quality makes the difference. The Netherlands is likely to control possession, while Japan will look to exploit transitions and counter-attacking opportunities.

Prediction: Netherlands 2-1 Japan

Expected outcome: A hard-fought Dutch victory that strengthens their position at the top of Group F, while Japan’s performance confirms they remain strong contenders to reach the knockout stage. Probability-wise, the Netherlands has the edge, but an upset or draw would not be a major surprise given Japan’s recent World Cup record against top opposition.