Japan face Netherlands with Depay cleared and Verbruggen in goal

Depay declared fit, Verbruggen starts in goal

Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman confirmed Memphis Depay is fit to face Japan and Bart Verbruggen will start in goal. "Dat ziet er goed uit," Koeman said at his final press conference before the match (8). Depay had been a fitness concern, but he is ready to go from the first whistle.

Frenkie de Jong addresses criticism of Dutch squad

Frenkie de Jong spoke openly about the criticism surrounding the Netherlands camp ahead of the opener. "Hopefully we can give you some confidence tomorrow," he told reporters (9). The Dutch midfield is under pressure to deliver after a bumpy buildup to the tournament.

Elfath to referee the opener

American referee Ismail Elfath has been appointed to officiate Netherlands vs Japan. It is the first time Elfath will take charge of a Netherlands match (4). Kickoff is set for Sunday evening, 22:00 local time.

Japan lineup features Eredivisie names

Japan's expected lineup includes one Ajax player and one Feyenoord player, bringing familiarity against a Dutch side they know well from club football (13). No further details on the XI have been confirmed.

Sai van Wermeskerken on Sneijder: 'He made me happy and sad'

Ahead of the match, Sai van Wermeskerken shared his complex feelings about Wesley Sneijder. Born in the Netherlands but raised in Japan, Van Wermeskerken said Sneijder "made me happy and sad at the same time" (12). A personal thread in a match full of them.

Around Group F

Turkey fell behind against Australia in the early match, going 1–0 down in a surprise start (5). Scotland and Haiti also meet later in the day (11). The World Cup is underway and Group F is already producing drama.