The Netherlands face Tunisia at Kansas City Stadium on Friday night, with top spot in Group F and a kinder knockout path as the prize for a convincing win.
Ronald Koeman’s side need no result to confirm progression to the round of 32, but first place carries genuine strategic value. They lead Japan on goals scored alone, and the group finale is as close to a free hit as a World Cup match allows. Against an already-eliminated Tunisia, Koeman’s squad have every reason to attack with intent.
Netherlands team news
The selection picture is more complicated than the scorelines suggest. Brian Brobbey gave Koeman exactly what he needed against Sweden — two goals, excellent hold-up play and the kind of focal-point presence that Malen, operating centrally, does not provide.
However, the Sunderland striker is carrying a hamstring knock and his availability for Friday is not confirmed. Should Koeman decide against risking him, Donyell Malen shifts centrally and the dynamic of the attack changes.
Crysencio Summerville sustained a head injury in the Sweden match and requires medical clearance before being considered. The West Ham United winger scored in the opener against Japan and added a cameo against Sweden, making him a strong candidate for a starting role if passed fit.
Quinten Timber, absent against Sweden through concussion, has returned to training and is available for selection. Frenkie de Jong is managing a minor knee complaint but is expected to start, though Koeman may consider resting him with the knockout rounds approaching.
Ryan Gravenberch and Tijjani Reijnders are nailed-on starters in midfield. The back four of Dumfries, Van Hecke, Van Dijk and Van de Ven continues unchanged, with Bart Verbruggen in goal.
Netherlands predicted lineup
Netherlands possible starting XI (4-3-3): Verbruggen; Dumfries, Van Hecke, Van Dijk, Van de Ven; Gravenberch, De Jong, Reijnders; Summerville, Brobbey, Gakpo
When will the match kick off?
The FIFA World Cup group match kicks off at 00:00 BST on Friday, 26 June 2026.
How to watch Tunisia vs Netherlands?
The match will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the UK.
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