The starting XIs have been confirmed for the top-of-the-group clash between the Netherlands and Sweden in 2026 FIFA World Cup Group F. Both managers' choices are now clear ahead of the game at the NRG Stadium in Houston.
Ronald Koeman made a notable attacking change from the 2-2 opener against Japan. Rather than the expected winger, he brought striker Brobbey into the XI, with Malen and Gakpo either side of him up front. In defence, Van Hecke — a £60m signing from Brighton — lines up alongside compatriot Van de Ven and captain Van Dijk. De Jong, Gravenberch and Reijnders form the midfield three. The Dutch have two notable absentees: Jurriën Timber, out with a groin injury, and Quinten Timber, unavailable after a collision.
For group leaders Sweden, Graham Potter goes with virtually the same team that thrashed Tunisia 5-1. Setting up a packed midfield in front of a back three, Potter again trusts Premier League goal machines Isak and Gyökeres up front. A win could be enough for Sweden to seal a place in the last 32.
Starting XIs
Netherlands (4-3-3): Verbruggen; Dumfries, Van Hecke, Van Dijk, Van de Ven; De Jong, Gravenberch, Reijnders; Malen, Brobbey, Gakpo
Sweden (3-5-2): Nordfeldt; Lagerbielke, Hien, Lindelöf; Bernhardsson, Nygren, Karlström, Ayari, Gudmundsson; Gyökeres, Isak
Image: sports.yahoo.com
Tuna Başkan
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