The Netherlands enters the field this Thursday (25) against Tunisia with the clear objective of guaranteeing the first position in Group F in the 2026 World Cup. The match, valid for the third round, takes place at Arrowhead Stadium, in Kansas City, starting at 8 pm (Brasília time).
The orange team arrives at the duel with four points, tied with Japan. A victory should guarantee the top of the group and a more favorable confrontation in the round of 16. Tunisia, in turn, is already eliminated after two defeats, but promises to fight to end its participation with dignity.
Netherlands maintains starting strength to close group stage
Ronald Koeman must repeat the base that has been working in the competition. The defense features the experience of Virgil van Dijk, alongside Micky van de Ven and Jan Paul van Hecke. In midfield, Frenkie de Jong, Tijjani Reijnders and Ryan Gravenberch lead the creation. In attack, Cody Gakpo, Brian Brobbey and Donyell Malen or Crysencio Summerville are the main options.
The Dutch team is coming off a good performance in the group stage, highlighting its offensive power. Koeman has praised the team’s balance, which mixes youth and international travel.
Tunisia bets on Renard to motivate team in farewell
Hervé Renard, who hastily took charge of Tunisia after Sabri Lamouchi’s dismissal, is trying to inject some spirit into a group that suffered defeats. The French coach, a specialist in African teams, should use Aymen Dahmen in goal, with Montassar Talbi, Omar Rekik and Dylan Bronn in defense. In the middle, Ellyes Skhiri and Hannibal Mejbri gain space, while Anis Ben Slimane and Elias Saad look for chances in attack.
Even without a chance of qualifying, Tunisia wants to avoid another significant defeat and use the game to project the future.
Group F still open for other teams
The Dutch victory could complicate the accounts of Japan and Sweden, who are also fighting for a place. Tunisia, with zero points and a negative balance, meets the schedule, but the clash serves as a test for Renard, who only has a contract until the end of the World Cup.
Where to watch live
The Tunisia x Netherlands match will be broadcast live on CazéTV and possibly on channels such as SporTV or Premiere, depending on the schedule. Also follow real-time updates on the main sports portals.