The Netherlands take on Japan in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Here is everything you need to know about how to watch the game.
How to watch Netherlands vs Japan on TV
Kick-off time: The Group F encounter is scheduled to start at 9pm for viewers in the United Kingdom. Fans in the United States can tune in at 3pm Central Time.
Match location: The game will be held at the spectacular AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, which will be officially designated as Dallas Stadium during the tournament.
United Kingdom TV channel: British audiences can watch the entire match for free on ITV1. Live studio coverage begins at 8pm, offering a full hour of build-up and punditry.
Live stream information: The match can be streamed live via the ITVX and STV Player apps on smartphones, tablets, and smart televisions.
Watching in the United States: Fox Sports will provide the English-language broadcast, while Spanish speakers can choose between Telemundo and the Peacock streaming service.
United Kingdom radio coverage: Fans on the go can listen to live audio commentary on talkSPORT or BBC Radio 5 Live.
Team news
Netherlands: Manager Ronald Koeman faces a fitness doubt over star forward Memphis Depay, who is battling a hamstring issue and is highly unlikely to feature.
Japan: The Samurai Blue are hit by severe injury problems. Captain Wataru Endo has been ruled out of the tournament and has retired from international football. Kaoru Mitoma and Takumi Minamino are also sidelined with long-term issues.
Head-to-head record
The Netherlands have won two of the three previous meetings, including a 1-0 victory in the 2010 World Cup and a 3-0 win in a 2009 friendly. Their last encounter in 2013 ended in a 2-2 draw.
