Endo out of World Cup as Japan prepare for Netherlands

Endo out of World Cup, Japan face Netherlands Sunday

Your captain won't kick a ball at this World Cup. Wataru Endo is out of the entire tournament, a massive blow to Japan's midfield and leadership on the eve of their Group F opener (2).

Japan face the Netherlands on Sunday, June 14, in their first match of the 2026 World Cup. Endo's absence forces a reshuffle in front of the backline, but Dutch analysts think Japan might cope better than expected, the system is built on collective structure, not one player (2).

Ronald Koeman's Oranje will likely lean on Frenkie de Jong to control the middle, with Sander Janssen a doubt for the Dutch (1) (3). Predicted line-ups have Japan setting up compact and looking to strike on the counter (3).

Kick-off is 22:00 CEST. All eyes on who wears the armband.