Koeman highlights importance of van Dijk for World Cup opener against Japan
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 14, 2026, 7:11 AM
Last updated Jun 14, 2026
Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman emphasized the role of captain Virgil van Dijk ahead of the team's World Cup opener against Japan, scheduled for later today near Dallas. Koeman described van Dijk as a crucial figure both on and off the pitch despite his struggles at Liverpool this season. He underscored that van Dijk helps maintain team morale, calling it likely that this World Cup will be his last. First-choice goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, previously nursing an injury, has been declared fit and will start in goal.
- •Ronald Koeman praises Virgil van Dijk's leadership skills.
- •Match against Japan takes place today near Dallas.
- •Van Dijk viewed as a key defensive asset despite Liverpool struggles.
- •Bart Verbruggen returns as the starting goalkeeper.
- 7:11 AMYahoo Sports — Dutch coach Koeman banks on 'strong personality' van Dijk for opener
"Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman underlined the importance of captain Virgil van Dijk ahead of the team's World Cup opener against Japan near Dallas later on Sunday. The 63-year-old said that a coach always wants a skipper who is a key figure on and off the pitch.
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