Netherlands Overview

Ajax Training Session and Press Conference

Ex-Netherlands star apologises for Japan remark

Former Netherlands international Rafael van der Vaart has issued a formal apology following a wave of backlash over offensive comments made during the 2026 World Cup. The ex-Tottenham and Real Madrid midfielder was working as a pundit for a Dutch broadcaster when he made a controversial remark regarding the appearance of Japan’s players after their 2-2 draw with the Oranje.

Netherlands v Japan: Group F - FIFA World Cup 2026

Kamada praises Glasner after dramatic World Cup equaliser

Daichi Kamada has praised the profound impact of his former Crystal Palace and Eintracht Frankfurt manager Oliver Glasner after scoring a crucial late equaliser for Japan against the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup. The midfielder credited the tactician for his successful transition into a deeper defensive role, which has revitalised his international career in the United States.

Netherlands v Poland - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier

Netherlands FIFA World Cup 2026 TV Schedule

GOAL’s complete Netherlands FIFA World Cup 2026 viewing guide, including how to watch for free and without cable!

Van Dijk not a fan of World Cup hydration breaks

Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk has expressed his frustration with the mandatory hydration breaks introduced for the 2026 World Cup. Speaking after his side's dramatic 2-2 draw with Japan, the veteran defender questioned the necessity of the stoppages in air-conditioned environments.

Van der Vaart compares Van Dijk to a 'Boeing 747' after Japan draw

Rafael van der Vaart has launched a stinging attack on Virgil van Dijk, comparing the Netherlands captain to a commercial airliner following a shaky defensive display against Japan. Despite the Liverpool man finding the net in the 2-2 draw, Van der Vaart admitted he was stunned by the defender's lack of mobility during the Netherlands' World Cup opener.

Drab Dutch held despite Summerville moment of magic

The Netherlands conceded a late equaliser as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Japan in their opening game of the 2026 World Cup. Second-half strikes from Virgil van Dijk and Crysencio Summerville looked to have got the Oranje over the line, but they were pegged back on both occasions as Group F began in Dallas.

Pos	Team	P	W	D	L	F	A	+/-	PTS	Form
1	Magesi FC	30	16	9	5	45	28	17	57	D D W W L
2	University of Pretoria	30	12	13	5	30	22	8	49	D D D D D
3	Baroka FC	30	12	11	7	37	28	9	47	D D W W W
4	Durban City	30	12	10	8	38	26	12	46	W D W D W
5	JDR Stars	30	12	10	8	33	30	3	46	L D W D W

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Form