The Netherlands arrive at this World Cup with genuine ambitions of going deep in the tournament. Japan, twice Asian champions in recent years, are no soft touch and they proved it at the 2022 World Cup when they topped their group ahead of Germany and Spain. This match in Dallas is one the Dutch are expected to win, but they cannot afford to take it lightly.
What’s at stake
Three points here would put the Netherlands in an excellent early position and confirm their status as serious contenders. Japan, however, have made a habit of taking points off European teams and a draw or better in their opener would give them a real platform to qualify from the group.
Both teams know that the first match sets the tone. A Netherlands win builds confidence; anything less hands the psychological edge to Japan, who thrive in exactly these low-expectation situations.
How they got here
The Netherlands progressed through European qualifying with composure, building on their run to the 2022 quarter-finals. Japan qualified as Asia’s top seed, with a squad built largely around players who ply their trade in Europe’s top leagues, making them a very different proposition from the Japan of a decade ago.
The sole previous meeting between these sides came at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where the Netherlands edged a 1-0 win in the group stage. Much has changed since then, particularly on the Japanese side.
Key battle to watch
Japan’s forwards are quick and direct; Netherlands will need their defensive line to hold its shape against the kind of pressing and transition game that caused Germany and Spain significant problems in Qatar. In midfield, Japan’s ability to win the ball back quickly will test the Dutch ability to build through pressure.
Key stats
- Head-to-head (all-time): Netherlands 1, Draws 0, Japan 0
- Only previous meeting: Netherlands 1-0 Japan, FIFA World Cup 2010 group stage
- Japan finished above Germany and Spain at the 2022 FIFA World Cup
- Kick-off: June 14, 20:00 UTC at AT&T Stadium, Dallas
Prediction
The Netherlands have the quality to win this, but Japan’s defensive organisation and counter-attacking speed will create problems. A narrow Dutch win is the most likely outcome, though Japan will create chances and this will not be the comfortable evening some are predicting for Oranje.