PREVIEW: Japan prepare for tasty clash World Cup clash with the Netherlands

PREVIEW: Japan prepare for tasty clash World Cup clash with the NetherlandsTom Coopey, World Cup correspondent

>Japan kick off their World Cup campaign against Group F opponents the Netherlands when the sides meet for the first time in over a decade on Friday evening in Dallas.

>It’s dubbed to be one of the most intriguing group stages clashes at the 2026 World Cup, one that hasn’t been seen since 2013, with a red hot Japan facing off against one of Europe’s best sides in Ronald Koeman’s side.

>The Dutch head into the tournament off the back of a successful European Championship campaign, reaching the semi-finals only to be knocked out by England, yet Japan could take advantage of some flaws that arose before the tournament.

>Draws with Poland and Ecuador and losing to Algeria in their pre-World Cup friendlies matches has exposed their vulnerability to get hit on the break and inefficiency against teams who are notoriously tough to break down.

>This is the epitome of what Hajime Moriyasu’s side have been all about in the build up to a seventh consecutive appearance, with impressive victories in the build up to this game over Brazil and Ghana.

>Japan also became the first ever Asian side to beat England, winning 1-0 at Wembley in March when Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma rounded off a ruthless counter attack to make history for the Blue Warriors.

>But Japan have never beaten the Netherlands, losing a friendly match in the lead up to their 1-0 group stage defeat to the Dutch at the 2010 World Cup courtesy of a 53rd-minute striker from retired great Wesley Sneijder.

>It is just the form they need to carry into the tournament if they are to go through to the knockouts and potentially beyond the round of 16 for the first time in their history as a World Cup nation.

>They suffered some devastating news this week, however, with Liverpool midfielder Watura Endo announcing that he wouldn’t be able to feature in the tournament after a battle with a foot injury that forced his international retirement.

>Captain Ko Itakura stressed how important it is to remain united for tournament football, saying: “Getting united is the most important thing in these short-term competitions.”

>Karou Mitoma and Takumi Minamino are also unavailable for the match through injury, yet Japan could be boosted by the potential return of former Arsenal full-back Takehiro Tomiyasu to the side.

>On the injury front for the Netherlands, Bart Verbruggen is available after doubts over a hip injury whilst Xavi Simons and Jurrien Timber are big absentees for the Dutch after not making the finals squad through their respective injuries.

>Despite that, Koeman is confident heading into the tournament and believes his side have the tools at hand to put together a memorable run.

>The 63-year-old said: “We want to go far ​in the tournament. We have a strong team and we know what ⁠we need to improve to have a real chance.”

>Japan haven’t conceded in their last five matches, whereas Netherlands netted 27 times in their eight qualifying games. So, it could well prove to be a clash of footballing styles that’s already been seen several times so far.

>You would expect Netherlands to have a healthy amount of ball possession, yet Japan have been renowned for their efficiency on the ball and ability to spring fast breakaways.

>For more detailed reports, reaction, and analysis of the World Cup as it happens, head to our website and favourite our page on OneFootball.