Netherlands: Strong on paper, but still searching for rhythm

The Netherlands head into the World Cup carrying the label of favorites, though recent performances have exposed a few concerns. Ronald Koeman’s side secured a 2-1 win over Norway, but with the Scandinavians missing several regular starters, the result offered limited insight into the Dutch level. That was followed by a 1-1 draw against Ecuador in a chaotic match influenced by an own goal and a sending-off, a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Algeria, and a narrow 2-1 victory over Uzbekistan in which the “Oranje” struggled to create from open play. The signs suggest this Dutch squad may still be searching for top form as the tournament begins.

Injuries have added to Koeman’s selection dilemmas. Jurriën Timber failed to recover in time from a groin problem, reducing defensive versatility, while goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen suffered an untimely injury before the competition, leaving Mark Flekken expected to step in between the posts. Even so, history offers encouragement: the Netherlands have avoided defeat in every World Cup opener since 1974, consistently beginning tournaments on solid footing.

Japan: A team built to compete, not just participate

Japan arrive with growing confidence and expectations, no longer viewed as outsiders hoping for surprises. The “Blue Samurai” are appearing at their eighth consecutive World Cup, reflecting the steady rise of Japanese football on the global stage. Their qualification campaign was exceptional — 54 goals scored and only three conceded in 16 matches underlined both attacking quality and defensive structure. A recent 1-0 victory over England further strengthened belief that Hajime Moriyasu’s side can challenge elite opposition.

However, Japan are not without setbacks. Midfield creativity has taken a hit with Takumi Minamino and Kaoru Mitoma unavailable, while the absence of Wataru Endo removes one of the team’s most influential leaders and defensive anchors. Moriyasu deliberately kept preparations light, with only one friendly at the end of May in an attempt to preserve freshness for his pressing system. Whether that strategy leaves the squad energized or lacking sharpness could become clear in this crucial opening encounter.

Probable lineups

Netherlands: Flekken; Van de Ven, Van Dijk, Van Hecke, Dumfries; De Jong, Reijnders, Gravenberch; Gakpo, Depay, Malen.

Japan: Suzuki; Watanabe, Itakura, Ito; Doan, Kamada, Tanaka, Nakamura; Kubo, Sano; Ueda.

Match facts and head-to-head

The Netherlands have avoided defeat in every World Cup opener since 1974.

In three of the Netherlands’ last four competitive matches and six of Japan’s last seven, both teams have not scored.

Japan netted 54 goals while conceding only three during World Cup qualification.

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