Netherlands vs Japan FIFA World Cup 2026 Preview

Netherlands and Japan meet in Arlington, Texas in one of the most anticipated Group F openers, with Sweden and Tunisia also in the mix. Ronald Koeman's Dutch side arrive in fine form, buoyed by the return of all-time top scorer Memphis Depay, who shook off a thigh injury to lead the attack alongside Cody Gakpo and Donyell Malen. Japan, meanwhile, have been in sensational form — five wins from five with a perfect clean sheet record — though they will be without talismanic winger Kaoru Mitoma through injury.

Head-to-head record

The Netherlands hold a clear historical edge, winning two of the three previous meetings and scoring six goals to Japan's two. Their last encounter, a 2-2 friendly draw in 2013, is the only match in which Japan avoided defeat. The Dutch also beat Japan 1-0 at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa — the only competitive meeting between the sides — making history firmly in the Oranje's favour heading into Saturday's clash.

H2H Summary: Netherlands 2 wins | 1 draw | Japan 0 wins

Previous meetings: