On Sunday, the Netherlands will host Finland in a crucial World Cup 2026 qualifying match at Johan Cruijff ArenA in Amsterdam. The Netherlands currently leads Group G with 10 points, three ahead of second-placed Poland, and a victory would consolidate their position at the top.
Match Preview
The Netherlands recently rebounded from a shaky late September performance. In their previous qualifying match against Malta, they showcased their strength with a commanding 4-0 victory. Cody Gakpo scored two penalties and assisted Tijjani Reijnders. The Oranjes will look to eliminate Finland from contention with another win.
Coach Ronald Koeman aims to secure the top spot ahead of a possible showdown with Poland next month. Finland, however, will arrive eager for a win to maintain any chance of automatic qualification. Historically, Finland has struggled against the Netherlands, suffering five consecutive qualifying defeats this century.
Current Form
- Netherlands: W W D W W
- Finland: W D L W L
Finland started their qualifying campaign with a 1-0 win over Malta but faced setbacks, including a recent 3-1 loss to Poland. They currently sit with 7 points but have played one more match than both the Netherlands and Poland, making their path to the World Cup challenging.
Team News
For the Netherlands, Koeman may alter his starting lineup. While Memphis Depay was late to the training camp and not fully fit, he could return to the starting XI. Wout Weghorst might shift to the bench as a substitute. Other notable absences include Matthijs de Ligt and Sem Steijn, who were left out of the squad.
On the Finnish side, key defender Robert Ivanov is suspended due to a recent booking, while captain Lukas Hradecky and midfielder Rasmus Schuller are injured. Either Viljami Sinisalo or Jesse Joronen is expected to start in goal.
Predicted Lineups
Netherlands:
- Verbruggen
- Dumfries
- Van Hecke
- Van Dijk
- Van de Ven
- Gravenberch
- De Jong
- Reijnders
- Frimpong
- Depay
- Gakpo
Finland:
- Joronen
- Alho
- Tenho
- Koski
- Uronen
- Lod
- Kairinen
- Markhiyev
- Kallman
- Pohjanpalo
- Antman
Match Prediction
The prediction for the match is a 2-0 victory for the Netherlands. The team’s attacking depth and previous success against Finland suggest they will extend their unbeaten run in this qualification phase.
