Netherlands vs Japan: Top five players to watch out for in FIFA World Cup 2026 ft- Memphis Depay & Takefusa Kubo

The Netherlands were famously knocked out by Argentina in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The Netherlands, who were famously eliminated by eventual champions Argentina in the quarterfinals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup on penalties, return to the tournament hoping to go a few steps further under Ronald Koeman and finally lift the trophy.

They begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against Japan, a side that proved their quality as underdogs in the last World Cup by defeating both Spain and Germany to top their group before narrowly exiting in the Round of 16 on penalties against Croatia.

The two nations will play in the opening game of Group F at the AT&T Stadium in Texas, USA, on June 14, 2026.

While neither side is considered among the outright favourites to win the tournament, both are among the strongest teams in their respective confederations. With plenty of quality on both sides, this promises to be an intense and closely contested encounter.

Here are five players who could have a major impact on the outcome of the match when these two sides take the field in Texas.

Top five players to watch for Netherlands vs Japan

S.No.	Player Name	Country
1	Memphis Depay	Netherlands
2	Virgil Van Dijk	Netherlands
3	Takesfusa Kubo	Japan
4	Frenkie De Jong	Netherlands
5	Ao Tanaka	Japan

5. Ao Tanaka

Ao Tanaka, coming off an impressive Premier League season with Leeds United, will be one of Japan’s most important players in midfield. Primarily a defensive midfielder, Tanaka possesses the versatility to operate in multiple roles across the middle of the park.

He is an energetic presence in midfield, constantly covering ground from his box-to-box role. Tanaka is also known for his well-timed late runs into the penalty area and knack for scoring important goals, as demonstrated by his controversial winner against Spain at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

4. Frenkie De Jong

Frenkie de Jong, who was carefully managed during the latter stages of the domestic season to ensure his fitness for the World Cup, remains one of the most influential players in the Dutch squad, particularly in midfield.

Operating from a deeper role, De Jong is responsible for linking defence and attack. His pressing resistance ability and technique to carry the ball forward at ease make him one of the finest midfielders in world football. Rarely giving possession away, he is often the player who dictates the rhythm of the game for the Netherlands.

3. Takefusa Kubo

Takefusa Kubo was once regarded as one of Europe’s brightest young talents after signing for Real Madrid. Now at Real Sociedad, the winger endured a difficult season disrupted by muscle injuries and finished with just six goal contributions in 27 appearances.

Despite that, his quality remains unquestionable and he has consistently delivered for the Japanese national team. With 24 goal contributions in 48 international appearances, Kubo averages a goal or assist in every other game. His creativity and agility in tight spaces, thanks to his excellent one-versus-one dribbling ability will be crucial to Japan’s attacking play.

2. Virgil Van Dijk

Virgil van Dijk, the 34-year-old captain of the Dutch national team, is likely preparing for his final FIFA World Cup. Following a disappointing domestic campaign with Liverpool, he will be determined to make a strong impression on football’s biggest stage.

Van Dijk remains one of the best defenders in the world when it comes to aerial dominance and positional awareness. His ability to anticipate danger and be in the right place at the right time continues to be a major asset. With Matthijs de Ligt and Jurrien Timber unavailable, Van Dijk’s leadership will be just as important as his defensive qualities.

1. Memphis Depay

One of the biggest concerns for the Netherlands ahead of the tournament was the fitness of Memphis Depay, currently the nation’s all-time leading goalscorer. Ronald Koeman will be delighted to have his star forward available for selection.

Depay first announced himself to the world during the 2014 FIFA World Cup and has enjoyed many highs throughout his career, although injuries have hampered him in recent years. He arrives at the tournament with limited match fitness after missing several games this season due to a hamstring injury.

Nevertheless, when fit and on the pitch, Depay remains one of the most dangerous attacking players in the Dutch setup. Whether making runs in behind, drifting in from the left or operating as a false nine, he possesses the quality to trouble any defence. He is also a significant threat from set-pieces, both directly from free-kicks and when delivering from corners.

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