Group F: Netherlands aims for first star, Sweden relies on Gyökeres

The Netherlands, a team with a history of near misses, including three runner-up finishes in 1974, 1978, and 2010, and a third-place finish in 2014, is setting its sights on winning its first World Cup star in 2026. While not currently favored among the top contenders for the 2026 edition, the squad boasts world-class talent. Veteran defenders Virgil Van Dijk and Nathan Aké bring extensive Premier League experience, while midfielder Frenkie De Jong is nearing 300 appearances for FC Barcelona. Memphis Depay, with a strong scoring record for "La Naranja Mecánica," and Cody Gakpo, a standout from the 2022 World Cup, add significant firepower.

Coach Ronald Koeman plans to blend this experienced core with a new generation of players. Goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, defender Mickey van de Ven, midfielder Ryan Gravenberch, and winger Crysensio Summerville, all around 25 years old, are set to make their World Cup debuts. This mix of seasoned professionals and promising young talent aims to provide the team with a balanced and competitive edge.

Sweden, often an underestimated historical competitor, has a notable World Cup record, including a runner-up finish in 1958 and two third-place finishes. The team's current offensive strength lies with Viktor Gyökeres, who has scored 140 goals in the last three and a half years. Before the 2022 World Cup, Gyökeres had a modest record with the national team, but his recent form, averaging 35 goals annually for club and country, has made him a key figure. Graham Potter, the English coach, relies on Gyökeres and the creative support of Alexander Isak and Anthony Elanga to drive the team forward.

Both Japan and Tunisia are determined to improve on their past World Cup performances. Japan, a consistent participant since 1998, has yet to advance beyond the round of 16. Coach Hajime Moriyasu has assembled a squad aiming for the quarterfinals, including veteran Yuto Nagatomo, who will be playing in his fifth World Cup at 39. Despite the absence of Kaoru Mitoma, the Japanese team features creative midfielders and dynamic attackers ready to challenge for a deeper run in the tournament.