Group F standings
| # | Team | P | W | D | L | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Netherlands | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2 |  Japan | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 3 |  Tunisia | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 4 |  Sweden | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
What each team needs
Netherlands
With one match played, Netherlands needs a result here to stay in contention for the knockout rounds.
Sweden
An opening win over Netherlands would be a major statement and strengthen Sweden's chances of progressing.
Team comparison
| Stat | Netherlands | Sweden |
|---|---|---|
| FIFA Ranking | 6 | 27 |
| World Cup Titles | 0 | 0 |
| World Cup Appearances | 11 | 13 |
| Best WC Finish | Runners-up (1974, 1978, 2010) | Runners-up (1958) |
| Manager | Ronald Koeman | Jon Dahl Tomasson |
| How They Qualified | UEFA — Group D winners | UEFA Playoff Path B winner |
| 2022 World Cup | Quarterfinals — lost to Argentina on pens | Did not qualify |
| Captain | Virgil van Dijk | Alexander Isak |
Prediction
Netherlands 2 — 1 Sweden
Based on FIFA rankings and recent form. Netherlands (ranked 6th) enters as the slight favourite.
Match facts
Netherlands have appeared at 11 World Cups. Sweden have appeared at 13.
Netherlands are ranked 6th in the world. Sweden are ranked 27th.
This match takes place at NRG Stadium, which is one of the 16 World Cup 2026 venues.
How to watch
| Region | Broadcast |
|---|---|
| USA (English) | FOX / FOX Sports App |
| USA (Spanish) | Telemundo / Peacock |
| UK | BBC / ITV (TBC) |
| Worldwide | FIFA+ (select territories) |
Venue
NRG Stadium · Houston · Capacity: 68,311
Full stadium guide →