Sport: Soccer Country: Japan Category: Scores & Results

Memphis Depay nearing return to starting lineup for Netherlands

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 12:48 AM

Last updated Jun 15, 2026

Memphis Depay nearing return to starting lineup for Netherlands

Summary

Memphis Depay may soon start for the Netherlands after nursing a thigh injury. Coach Ronald Koeman indicated that Depay is nearly ready following the Dutch team's 2-2 draw against Japan in their World Cup opener. Depay, who entered as a substitute, helped maintain the team’s unbeaten streak in group play. The Netherlands will face Sweden next in Houston, aiming to strengthen their position in Group F.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Depay entered in the 70th minute against Japan
•Netherlands drew 2-2 with Japan in their World Cup opener
•Koeman confirmed Depay is almost ready to start
•The Dutch are scheduled to play Sweden on Saturday
•Netherlands has an unbeaten streak of 17 games in group play

Latest Updates

12:48 AMYahoo Sports — Memphis Depay could be close to starting again at World Cup as Dutch star nurses thigh injury

What they're saying

"
Depay, who has 55 international appearances, gave a thumbs-up to reporters when asked how he was feeling after Oranje's 2-2 draw against the Samurai Blue. “Memphis is almost ready,” said coach Ronald Koeman, whose team plays Sweden in Houston on Saturday. The Dutch led 2-1 when Depay, Teun Koopmeiners and Quinten Timber entered as substitutes while Crysencio Summerville, Donyell Malen and Tijjani Reijnders exited.
— Yahoo Sportsby SCHUYLER DIXON

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