Netherlands

The Netherlands cruised through World Cup qualification with the confidence and style expected of one of Europe's traditional powerhouses. The Oranje demonstrated their quality with attacking football that thrilled fans, featuring the total football philosophy that has been the hallmark of Dutch teams. Their qualifying campaign was characterized by dominant performances, with the Netherlands winning their group comfortably and scoring goals at will. The team has found the perfect balance between defensive organization and attacking flair. Key to their success has been the emergence of young players stepping up on the international stage, complementing experienced stars. The Netherlands showed they could win in different ways, dominating weaker opponents while also grinding out results in tight matches. Their path to 2026 has been smooth, with expectations high given their talented squad and favorable recent form. Coach Ronald Koeman has created a team ready to compete for the title.