Key facts
- The Netherlands has reached three World Cup finals (1974, 1978, 2010) but has never won the tournament.
- Captain Virgil van Dijk stated the team's focus is on winning the World Cup.
- The Netherlands will play Japan in their opening group match.
- The team has a 12-match unbeaten streak in World Cup regulation and extra time.
- Injuries to Jurrien Timber and Bart Verbruggen pose challenges for the squad.
The Netherlands national football team has arrived at its World Cup base camp in Riverside, Missouri, with a mix of ambition and the weight of past near-misses. Despite being considered one of the world's top teams and having reached three World Cup finals, the trophy has always eluded them. Captain Virgil van Dijk expressed the team's 'big dreams' and focus on winning the tournament, starting with their opening match against Japan.