Virgil van Dijk faces last opportunity for Netherlands in World Cup
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 10, 2026, 3:11 PM
Last updated Jun 10, 2026
Virgil van Dijk is preparing for what may be his final World Cup with the Netherlands, who have faced criticism for failing to capitalize on their potential in recent years. At 34, Van Dijk has led the team since 2018 but only boasts a runners-up finish in the 2019 Nations League. With a year remaining on his contract with Liverpool, his influence and performance levels have been called into question. The Netherlands will compete in a challenging group alongside Sweden and Japan, needing to advance to fulfill expectations in an expanded tournament.
- •Van Dijk turns 35 during the World Cup.
- •Netherlands has only a 2019 Nations League runners-up medal under Van Dijk.
- •The team faces Sweden and Japan in group play.
- •Critics question Van Dijk's current elite status.
- •Liverpool contract expires in a year.
- 3:11 PMYahoo Sports — Virgil van Dijk is an undisputed all-time great
"The best centre-back in the world over the past decade faces his last chance to make a difference for the Netherlands.
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