Sport: Soccer Category: Scores & Results

Virgil van Dijk leads Netherlands in World Cup quest against Japan

Sky Sports Football • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 14, 2026, 7:13 AM

Last updated Jun 14, 2026

Virgil van Dijk leads Netherlands in World Cup quest against Japan

Summary

Virgil van Dijk captains the Netherlands as they face Japan in their Group F opener at the 2026 World Cup on Sunday. This may be van Dijk's last appearance in the tournament, as he turns 35 shortly before the quarter-finals. The Dutch team aims for their first World Cup title, having been runners-up three times previously. Van Dijk has been a cornerstone of the national team since becoming captain in 2018, leading them to notable performances in the Nations League and Euro 2024.

Source Links

Sky Sports Football

By the Numbers

•Netherlands starts World Cup campaign against Japan on Sunday.
•Virgil van Dijk could make his final World Cup appearance.
•Netherlands aims for their first World Cup title.
•Van Dijk has led the team to the Nations League finals and Euro 2024 semis.
•He has been with the team since March 2018, enhancing their competitive stature.

What they're saying

"
Virgil van Dijk will be desperate to lead the Netherlands to World Cup glory for the first time in their history in what will surely be the centre back's final-ever appearance at the tournament.
— Sky Sports Football

Related Teams & Leagues

Soccer