Dutch manager Ronald Koeman says his side has more than enough quality to beat any team at the World Cup, even if they are not widely tipped as title contenders.
The Dutch, who have finished second three times, will play Japan in their opening Group F match before taking on Sweden and Tunisia.
Holder Argentina, 2018 winner France and European champion Spain are among the favorites to win the World Cup in North America from June 11 to July 19, but Koeman has confidence in his team.
«People may not see us as one of the favorites to win the World Cup. But the strength of the Netherlands is that we can beat anyone because we have the ability in our selection,» he said. FIFA in an interview published Monday.
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The 63-year-old, who is yet to make his World Cup squad, returned as coach in 2023 after Louis van Gaal led the side to the quarter-finals in the previous edition in Qatar.
“I think this team is on the right track,” he added.
«What I would like people to say about my team is that they play with a lot of intensity and they can’t say we haven’t done enough. I want them to play with confidence, with personality, and understand what their qualities are.»
«And to always respect every opponent, despite the fact that there may be so-called smaller countries at the World Cup. They are all games in themselves, and you have to make sure that you are not overwhelmed by a smaller country.»
Published on May 19, 2026
