Netherlands-Japan Goalless at Half Time

In the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group F opening match, Netherlands and Japan completed the first half 0-0 at AT&T Stadium in Dallas. Oranje under Ronald Koeman's management held the ball for most of the game but could not be effective in the opponent's goal. Japan under Hajime Moriyasu's coaching did not give the rival space with a disciplined defensive understanding. Netherlands increased their pressure in the final stages of the first half; in the 45+2 minute, Donyell Malen positioned himself to head the beautiful crosses sent to the penalty area while the opposing defence prevented the danger by jumping higher. In the same minute, Jan Paul van Hecke tried to pass the ball through but the attack was cut off and Netherlands won a corner. In the 45+4 minute, the referee blew his whistle and both teams headed to the dressing room.

In the first half statistics, Netherlands had a clear superiority. In expected goal value, Oranje produced 0.34, Japan 0.15. In ball possession, Netherlands caught a 69 percent ratio, Japan 31 percent. In total shots, Netherlands attempted 5, Japan 3. In big chances, both teams could not produce a clear position and signed the 0-0 picture. In touches in the opponent's penalty box, Netherlands produced 14, Japan 7. The match's referee, American Ismail Elfath, displayed a cautious management throughout the first half. An important part of the 105 thousand capacity of AT&T Stadium is full; both fan groups continued to support their teams. In the second half, Netherlands is expected to increase their productivity in attack; Cody Gakpo, Donyell Malen and Crysencio Summerville running to positions that will create danger will be Koeman's priority. On the Japan side, it is thought that Takefusa Kubo and Daizen Maeda will try to be effective in quick counter attacks.

Image: nypost.com