Back at a World Cup for the first time since 2014, the Dutch will be eager to make an impact in Qatar.
They will look upon their group as a favourable one and have ambitions to go deep into the tournament. Head coach Louis van Gaal brings bags of experience.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Netherlands…
Coach: Louis van Gaal. Now enjoying his third stint as boss of the Dutch. Earlier this year he revealed that he has had an aggressive form of prostate cancer since 2020 but he is well enough to team in Qatar.
Captain: Virgil van Dijk. The Liverpool defender is a supreme leader and arguably the best centre-back in the world.
Star player: Memphis Depay. Boats an impressive record of nearly a goal every other game for Holland.
One to watch: Cody Gakpo. Linked with a host of top European clubs, the PSV winger looks set for a big move after the tournament.
World ranking: 8th
Odds: 11/1
Best thing about them: It could be Van Gaal’s press conferences, which are often box office.
Worst thing about them: Their kit. Somehow the classic orange shirt doesn’t look as great as it usually does.
Their prospects in three words: Expecting quarter-finals.
Fixtures (all times GMT)
November 21 vs Senegal (4pm)
November 25 vs Ecuador (4pm)
November 29 vs Qatar (3pm)
Squad in full
Goalkeepers: Justin Bijlow, Remko Pasveer, Andries Noppert.
Defenders: Virgil van Dijk, Nathan Ake, Daley Blind, Jurrien Timber, Denzel Dumfries, Stefan de Vrij, Mathijs de Ligt, Tyrell Malacia, Jeremie Frimpong.
Midfielders: Frenkie de Jong, Steven Berghuis, Davy Klaassen, Teun Koopmeiners, Cody Gakpo, Marten de Roon, Kenneth Taylor, Xavi Simons
Forwards: Memphis Depay, Steven Bergwijn, Vincent Janssen, Luuk de Jong, Noa Lang, Wout Weghorst
