Netherlands not favorites but have World Cup-winning quality, says Koeman

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman is confident that his squad possesses the quality to challenge any team at the 2026 World Cup, even though they are not considered among the primary favorites. The Dutch team, known for their consistency in Europe, are aiming to win their first world title after finishing as runners-up in 1974, 1978, and 2010.

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Many may not see us as among the favorites to win the World Cup, but the strength of the Netherlands is that we can beat anyone because that quality is indeed in this squad.

Koeman stated that the strength of the Oranje lies not in their favorite status, but in their players' ability to compete with any opponent on the world stage. "Many may not see us as among the favorites to win the World Cup, but the strength of the Netherlands is that we can beat anyone because that quality is indeed in this squad," he said.

The Dutch squad will rely on the experience of captain Virgil van Dijk, the creativity of Frenkie de Jong, and the sharpness of Cody Gakpo. However, their preparations were slightly disrupted by a 0-1 defeat to Algeria in their final warm-up match before the tournament.

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We don't need to panic, but we need to tidy things up, and it can be considered a warning for us.

Koeman described the loss as a useful reminder for his team not to underestimate the challenges ahead. "We don't need to panic, but we need to tidy things up, and it can be considered a warning for us," he commented. Despite some pre-tournament fitness concerns, Koeman remains optimistic that his team is on the right track to compete with other top contenders.

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I think this team is on the right track.