The Netherlands open their World Cup campaign against Japan this evening at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Ronald Koeman leads his country to yet another major tournament, having steered the Oranje back to qualification for the 2022 tournament in Qatar after missing out on playing in Russia eight years ago. They crashed out to Argentina in dramatic fashion in the last eight in Lusail, losing on penalties. At the European Championships in 2024, they reached the semi-finals but were beaten by England, thanks to Ollie Watkins’ last-gasp winner, which saw the Three Lions set up a final meeting with eventual winners Spain. Now, they are back on the global stage, hoping to cause a stir and top Group F, which also houses Sweden and Tunisia.
Japan: Dark Horses
Japan are fancied by many as dark horses for this competition, with Hajime Moriyasu setting his side up to be difficult to beat while also boasting an impressive crop of players from the top leagues on the planet.
How to Watch
TV channel: In the UK, the game will be televised live and free-to-air on ITV1, with coverage starting at 8.15pm BST. Coverage will immediately follow the Group E meeting between Germany and Curacao, which will be broadcast on the same channel.
Live stream: UK viewers can also catch the contest live and for free online via the ITVX app or ITV website.
Live Updates
Hello and welcome to Standard Sport’s LIVE coverage of the Netherlands’ World Cup opener against Japan. Ronald Koeman’s men face a side heavily fancied by many as dark horses this summer. Stay tuned for all the updates, with kick-off from Arlington, Texas at 9pm BST.
