Netherlands vs Sweden World Cup 2026: Predicted XIs and Team News

Ronald Koeman has no fresh injury concerns ahead of tonight's crucial World Cup fixture for the Netherlands against Sweden. The Dutch were held to a draw by Japan in their opening game, despite twice taking the lead through captain Virgil van Dijk and West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville.

Koeman Defends Tactics After Japan Draw

Koeman faced criticism over his substitutions in the second half, notably switching to a back five to protect a 2-1 lead. The decision backfired as Japan equalised in the 89th minute. However, Koeman defended his tactics in the post-match press conference, stating: "There was also a problem with pressure on the flanks. So if you look at the game, both goals, well, we didn't defend well." He added: "Football is a funny game because, after Japan scored the second goal, they started defending as well. So we could have scored a third goal. So I don't regret my choices."

Expected Lineup Changes for Netherlands

While failure to beat Sweden would not signal an early exit, Koeman is expected to field an attacking lineup to secure a win that would move them above Sweden in Group F. The one change could see all-time record scorer Memphis Depay replace Donyell Malen after recovering from a thigh injury to make a substitute appearance against Japan.

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Predicted Netherlands XI: Verbruggen; Dumfries, Van Hecke, Van de Ven; De Jong, Gravenberch; Summerville, Reijnders, Gakpo; Memphis

Sweden Unchanged After Tunisia Rout

Sweden are set to be unchanged from their 5-1 thrashing of Tunisia, meaning Graham Potter keeps faith in the strike partnership of Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres. The duo scored and assisted each other on matchday one but face a tougher test against Van Dijk and new Tottenham signing Jan Paul van Hecke. Gabriel Gudmundsson forced off against Tunisia but his issue is not serious, and he will be tasked with keeping Summerville quiet.

Lucas Bergvall is likely to remain on the bench after Yasin Ayari's goalscoring display against Mexico.

Predicted Sweden XI: Nordfelt; Lagerbielke, Hien, Lindelof; Bernhardsson, Nygren, Karlstrom, Ayari, Gudmundsson; Isak, Gyokeres