Netherlands NED

Ranked eighth in the world by FIFA, the Netherlands arrive at the 2026 World Cup under Ronald Koeman with a clear mandate: reach the semi-finals or consider the campaign a disappointment. It is an ambitious target, and one that has already been complicated by a raft of injury issues forcing Koeman to prioritise strength and fitness over pure footballing flair as he assembles his squad.

There is plenty to admire about this Oranje side, however. They swept through qualification unbeaten, hammering in 27 goals along the way — a statement of attacking intent that caught the eye across UEFA. Yet it is arguably their defensive unit that looks most formidable on paper, marshalled by the commanding presence of captain Virgil van Dijk at the heart of the back four.

The concerns are real, though. Several key players have carried injury layoffs or a lack of regular game time into the tournament, and those fitness question marks hang over the squad's overall cohesion. An opening fixture against Japan will provide an immediate and searching examination of how well Koeman has managed those issues in the build-up.

The squad itself is rich with quality when fit. Goalkeepers Bart Verbruggen and Mark Flekken compete for the gloves, while Jan Paul van Hecke offers Van Dijk a composed partner in defence. In midfield, Frenkie de Jong and Mats Wieffer provide the engine, with Guus Til adding further depth. Up front, Memphis Depay's experience and eye for goal remain vital, flanked by the electric pace of Noa Lang and Crysencio Summerville. On their day, this is a side capable of beating anyone — the question is whether Koeman can keep them healthy long enough to prove it.