Netherlands open World Cup against Japan with history on the line

World Cup opener: Netherlands face Japan Sunday evening

This is it. The World Cup starts for Oranje on Sunday evening (22.00 CET) against Japan in Group F. Ronald Koeman has been clear, the team he picks against Japan will almost certainly be the one that defines this tournament. The occasion also brings Rafael van der Vaart's prediction that the Netherlands can reach the semi-finals. American referee Ismail Elfath will officiate, a first for the Dutch national team. (2) (3) (4) (5)

History within reach for Van Dijk and the squad

Two records are on the line Sunday. The Netherlands can equal their all-time World Cup record, and Virgil van Dijk could surpass Memphis Depay in caps. A big night with history written into it. (4)

Ihattaren's heart split if Netherlands meet Morocco

Mohamed Ihattaren has admitted he would cheer for Morocco if the two nations meet at the World Cup. "Oranje has a really nice team and very fun players," he said, but his loyalty lies with the Atlas Lions in a head-to-head. (6)

Hato drops Chelsea hint before kick-off

Jorrel Hato has sent a message to Chelsea fans just before the World Cup begins, keeping his name in the transfer conversation as the tournament gets underway. (7)

Elsewhere at the World Cup: Aussies ahead, USA dominant

Australia took a surprise lead against Turkey in Group D on Sunday, with Feyenoord left-back Jordan Bos starting, though he did miss a chance. Former Feyenoord players Orkun Kökçü and Ferdi Kadioglu featured for Turkey. The USA impressed earlier in the day against Paraguay with the tournament's highest goal tally so far, featuring PSV's Ricardo Pepi, Sergino Dest, and Malik Tillman. (8) (9)