Netherlands' Oranje grapples with injuries and squad doubts ahead of 2026 World Cup

Coach Ronald Koeman warned that the Dutch national team enters the 2026 World Cup with several unresolved issues. Recent friendly results – a 1‑2 loss to Algeria and a 2‑1 win over Uzbekistan – have left questions about the side's form. Key defenders Jurriën Timber, Xavi Simons and Matthijs de Ligt are sidelined with injuries, while striker Memphis Depay is still recovering from a season of ailments and is expected to begin the tournament on the bench.

Despite the setbacks, Koeman emphasized the quality of the squad, citing the continued presence of stars such as Virgil van Dijk, Frenkie de Jong, Denzel Dumfries and others. Forward Wout Weghorst reiterated the team's ultimate aim of winning the tournament.

In parallel, two Feyenoord players – winger Anis Hadj Moussa and midfielder Ramiz Zerrouki – have secured places in Algeria's World Cup roster. Moussa, who recently scored against the Netherlands in a friendly at De Kuip, is likely to feature as a substitute, while Zerrouki, on loan at FC Twente, may earn a starting role. Algeria will face Argentina, Jordan and Austria in Group J, with Moussa and Zerrouki hoping to make an impact.

Overall, the Dutch side heads to the United States with a mix of talent and uncertainty, while the presence of Feyenoord internationals adds a Dutch club dimension to Algeria's campaign.