At 3 AM on June 15th, Asian powerhouse Japan officially kicked off their 2026 World Cup campaign with a match against the Netherlands. In terms of world -class achievements, the "Orange Tornado" is considered superior, having finished as runners-up three times in 1974, 1978, and 2010.
Significantly narrowing the skill gap.
However, the rapid progress of the East Asian representatives has significantly narrowed the gap in skill level between the two teams. While the Netherlands possesses the experience of a team that has consistently advanced deep into major tournaments recently, Japan has the confidence of a footballing nation that has not lost to a European opponent in 90 minutes since 2019.
The Netherlands (left) could be Japan's biggest challenge in Group F of the 2026 World Cup. Photo: THE SUN
In North America, the Netherlands' biggest strength lies in their attack. Memphis Depay, the top scorer for this Western European team, will be making his third appearance at the biggest football tournament on the planet. The experience and effectiveness of the striker born in 1994 could help the Netherlands make a difference in a deadlock. In addition, Donyell Malen's excellent form at AS Roma provides coach Ronald Koeman with another attacking option.
Conversely, the Dutch midfield and defense are experiencing a serious injury crisis. Their top goalkeeper, Bart Verbruggen, had to leave the field early in the final friendly match before the 2026 World Cup and is unlikely to recover in time. Defender Jurrien Timber has withdrawn from the tournament, while Matthijs de Ligt, Jerdy Schouten, and Xavi Simons missed the World Cup from the start.
Impressions of the Blue Samurai
Meanwhile, Japan had a perfect warm-up, defeating England at Wembley earlier this April. Despite missing some experienced key players, coach Hajime Moriyasu's team still boasts a quality squad playing in Europe.
Takefusa Kubo is expected to be the creative "brain" in the attacking play of the Japanese team. The Real Sociedad star's dribbling ability and sharp tactical vision could cause many difficulties for the Dutch defense. He will support the lone striker Ayase Ueda alongside Junya Ito. This trio contributed to 33 goals for the Japanese national team in the qualifying rounds.
For many years, Japan has pursued a modern style of play, organizing well-structured pressing and being particularly dangerous in transitional phases. Meanwhile, under Koeman, the Netherlands focuses on controlling the midfield and flexibly changing their formation. If midfielder Frenkie de Jong is neutralized, the "Orange Tornado" will find it very difficult to implement their style of play against an energetic Japan.
With their sharp attacking capabilities, the "Blue Samurai" will pose a significant challenge to the defense led by Virgil van Dijk. However, the Netherlands, a team that hasn't lost its opening World Cup match since 1938, is still capable of winning or at least securing a point.
Two rookies from the Americas make their debut.
On the same day, June 15th, two newcomers from the Americas to the 2026 World Cup will play their first matches at the biggest football event on the planet. Curacao will face Germany at midnight, while Cape Verde will meet European champions Spain at 11 PM.
With impressive squad depth and superior professional skills, the two "giants" of the old continent are predicted to easily secure all three points on opening day.
Source: https://nld.com.vn/ha-lan-nhat-ban-man-thu-lua-cua-tham-vong-chau-a-19626061320330094.htm
