Netherlands have been knocked out of the 2026 World Cup, losing on penalties in their round of 32 match against Morocco.
After topping their group with seven points, Oranje were hoping to make a run deep into the tournament. Instead, a disappointing early exit befell them with that loss in Monterrey.
READ MORE: Get the latest Netherlands World Cup 2026 outright odds here
Netherlands World Cup 2026 stats
Netherlands World Cup results
Netherlands key players for World Cup 2026
Netherlands top World Cup Golden Boot contender: Brian Brobbey
- Key stat: Brian Brobbey scored a brace against Sweden.
Many expected record goalscorer Memphis Depay to lead the line for the Netherlands this summer, but Donyell Malen played through the middle against Japan, before Brobbey was given the start against Sweden. The latter was excellent in Houston, using his considerable strength to pin Swedish defenders and link play, while he trebled his international goal tally with a brace. Surely, he’ll be the go-to No.9 moving forward.
Netherlands primary playmaker: Frenkie de Jong
- Key stat: Frenkie de Jong created 18 chances for the Netherlands in 2026 World Cup qualifying, with an average of 3.1 chances created per 90 minutes.
Frenkie de Jong has established himself as the Netherlands’ creative heartbeat in midfield. The Barcelona midfielder’s technical ability, vision, and understanding of the game make him essential to Oranje’s attacking play. De Jong’s capacity to control matches and create opportunities for teammates has been instrumental in the Netherlands’ recent success. His performances at Euro 2024 demonstrated his readiness for the World Cup stage. Against Group F opponents, de Jong should have plenty of space to showcase his creative talents.
Netherlands defensive anchor: Virgil van Dijk
- Key stat: Virgil van Dijk averaged 2.8 tackles and 5.2 interceptions per 90 minutes in 2026 World Cup qualifying.
Virgil van Dijk remains the cornerstone of the Netherlands’ defence, providing defensive stability and leadership. The Liverpool captain’s experience, positioning, and understanding of the game continue to make him invaluable to Oranje. Van Dijk’s ability to organise the defence while maintaining possession has been crucial to the Netherlands’ success. His presence will be particularly important in the knockout stages against stronger opposition.
Netherlands rising star: Jorrel Hato
The young defender made the move to Chelsea last summer. He enjoyed a so-so debut season with the Blues, though few covered themselves in glory at Stamford Bridge.
Even so, Jorrel Hato is a handy defensive option for Ronald Koeman. Able to operate at left-back and centre-back, Hato’s versatility at the back could come in handy for the Oranje boss.
STAND-OUT STAT: Netherlands have the best win percentage in World Cup matches of any team not to win the tournament. Their 54.5% win ratio is only topped by Brazil and Germany.
Netherlands set-piece specialists
- Penalties: Memphis Depay
- Free kicks: Frenkie de Jong, Cody Gakpo
- Corners: Denzel Dumfries
Tactical analysis and formation
Netherlands team stats (average per game from World Cup qualifying)
- Shots: 17.4
- Shots on Target: 6.5
- Shots conceded: 7
- Corners: 6.5
Ronald Koeman tend to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation with Memphis Depay spearheading the attack. A large Premier League presence remains in the squad, with Cody Gakpo, Tijani Reijnders, Justin Kluivert and Xavi Simons in attack. Frenkie De Jong and Ryan Gravenberch will likely provide the defence with protection, while Virgil Van Dijk will have to marshal the backline.
Get the latest Netherlands World Cup goals, assists, shots, passes and tackle stats here
Netherlands manager analysis
Ronald Koeman has been in charge of the Netherlands national team since June 2023, replacing Louis van Gaal. His time at the helm has been largely successful in terms of wins and losses, with 18 victories and only four defeats, but the side being eliminated from Euro 2024 at the semi-final stage will have been seen as a disappointment for a team with genuine World Cup ambitions. Despite this setback, Koeman has established himself as a respected figure in international football management.
Koeman has extensive international pedigree, having managed the Netherlands national team previously from 2018 to 2020, where he led them to qualification for Euro 2020 and the UEFA Nations League Finals. He has also managed at the highest club level, including spells at Barcelona, where he won La Liga, and at Everton and Southampton in the Premier League. His experience at both club and international level provides him with the tactical knowledge and man-management skills required to lead a World Cup campaign.
| Coach | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ronald Koeman | Netherlands | 42 | 23 | 10 | 9 | 99 | 45 | 54.76% |
Netherlands World Cup FAQs
The Netherlands have never been crowned winners of the World Cup, reaching the final three times (in 1974, 1978, and 2010) but failing to win the trophy on each occasion.
The Netherlands were eliminated from the 2022 World Cup at the quarter-final stage, losing 3-1 to Argentina in a dramatic encounter.
Robin van Persie currently holds the record for goals for the Netherlands at World Cups, scoring six goals across three tournaments (2006, 2010, and 2014). Memphis Depay is approaching this record, having scored five goals across two tournaments (2014 and 2022), and could potentially surpass van Persie’s tally at the 2026 World Cup if he continues his impressive goal-scoring form.
Johan Cruyff is widely regarded as the Netherlands’ greatest World Cup player, having led the Dutch to the 1974 final and revolutionising the way football was played with his innovative style. Other legendary Dutch World Cup performers include Marco van Basten, Frank Rijkaard, Ruud Gullit, and Dennis Bergkamp, all of whom contributed significantly to the Netherlands’ success in various tournaments.
Based on current odds of 20/1, the Netherlands have an implied probability of approximately 4.76% of winning the 2026 World Cup. However, this probability could be significantly higher when accounting for their favourable group draw and the quality of their squad. Many analysts believe the Netherlands’ true winning probability is closer to 6-8%, making them genuine contenders for the trophy.
Read more:
