The Netherlands head into their World Cup 2026 qualification campaign looking to bounce back after a disappointing end to Euro 2024 – a tournament where they turned a lot of heads in the football betting when they reached the last four.
Ronald Koeman’s men suffered a heartbreaking semi-final loss to England, but there were positives in their recent Nations League fixtures. Despite an ageing squad and a few key injuries, the Oranje are determined to return stronger as they target a place in the next World Cup.
The Netherlands kicked off their Nations League campaign with a thrilling 5-2 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina. Manchester United’s new signing Joshua Zirkzee scored his first international goal, with further strikes from Cody Gakpo, Tijjani Reijnders, and Wout Weghorst ensuring a commanding win.
The Dutch were then held to a 2-2 draw against Germany in a game marred by an injury to Manchester City’s Nathan Ake. Despite taking an early lead through Reijnders, the Netherlands had to rely on a Denzel Dumfries equaliser to share the spoils after the Euro 2024 hosts threatened to take control.
With key players like Ake suffering injuries and the core of the team ageing, it’s now or never for the Netherlands. The 2026 World Cup will likely be the last major tournament for some of the squad’s most experienced players, making it crucial that their younger stars step up during the qualifying rounds.
As the Netherlands begin their qualifying journey for the World Cup in America, Mexico, and Canada, they’ll need their most experienced players to guide them. Here’s a look at the key players who must shine if the Oranje are to secure their spot in 2026.
Virgil van Dijk
The Netherlands captain will be central to their qualification hopes. Van Dijk, still playing at a high level aged 33 under new Liverpool manager Arne Slot, will look to lead his country after making his World Cup debut in 2022.
As one of the world’s best defenders, Van Dijk will need to use his experience and leadership to marshal the Dutch defence and make up for the time lost due to the lack of form Holland suffered earlier in his international career.
Wout Weghorst
Weghorst is another player whose chances of playing in a World Cup are likely limited. The Ajax striker impressed during a loan spell at Manchester United where he won the League Cup in 2023 and continues to find the back of the net for both club and country.
With 41 caps and 13 goals at the time of writing, Weghorst’s physical presence and ability to pop up with crucial goals make him a key asset for the Dutch attack.
Jerdy Schouten
Schouten has emerged as a key part of Koeman’s midfield. After making a name for himself at Bologna in 2023, the midfielder earned a move back to the Eredivisie with PSV, where he continues to impress.
The 27-year-old’s performances in the Nations League further solidified his role in the Dutch setup, and his ability to control the game from midfield will be vital for the Netherlands as they push for World Cup qualification.
Memphis Depay
Despite missing the latest Nations League matches, Memphis Depay remains a pivotal figure for the Netherlands.
Having signed for Corinthians in Brazil, Depay’s 98 caps and vast international experience make him invaluable to the Dutch side.
His recent struggles with injuries may have sidelined him temporarily, but Depay will be eager to play a leading role in the qualification campaign, especially with Koeman keeping the door open for his return and a century of appearances at international level.
Tijjani Reijnders
Reijnders is another exciting midfield option for the Netherlands. Despite AC Milan’s slow start to the season, the tenacious midfielder has shown his versatility and importance in the squad. His goal against Germany in the Nations League was a reminder of his ability to contribute in both defence and as a box-to-box midfielder, making him a key player for the future.
and then