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World Cup 2026
Memphis Depay may start for the Netherlands against Sweden as Ronald Koeman looks to secure a win following their draw with Japan in the World Cup group stage.
Memphis Depay is poised to rejoin the starting lineup for the Netherlands in their upcoming World Cup match against Sweden, as coach Ronald Koeman aims to improve on the team’s opening draw with Japan.
Koeman confirmed there are no new injury issues ahead of the important Group F fixture. The Netherlands managed a 2-2 draw with Japan despite taking the lead twice through captain Virgil van Dijk and winger Crysencio Summerville.
Following the match, Koeman faced criticism for his substitutions, particularly his decision to switch to a back five to protect a 2-1 lead, which ultimately allowed Japan to equalize in the 89th minute. However, Koeman defended his tactical choices in the post-match press conference.
He explained, "There was also a problem with pressure on the flanks. So if you look at the game, both goals, well, we didn't defend well. Football is a funny game because, after Japan scored the second goal, they started defending as well. So we could have scored a third goal. So I don't regret my choices."
Although failing to defeat Sweden would not eliminate the Netherlands from the tournament, Koeman is expected to field an attacking lineup in search of a victory that would place them above Sweden in the group standings.
The anticipated change involves Depay replacing Donyell Malen up front. Depay recovered from a thigh injury and made a substitute appearance against Japan.
Sweden is likely to maintain the same lineup that secured a 5-1 win over Tunisia in their opening match. Manager Graham Potter appears set to continue with Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres as the striking duo.
Isak and Gyokeres, who both contributed goals and assists in the first game, will face a challenging defense including Van Dijk and new Tottenham signing Jan Paul van Hecke.
Gabriel Gudmundsson, who was substituted due to injury against Tunisia, is expected to be fit and will be tasked with marking Summerville.
Meanwhile, Spurs midfielder Lucas Bergvall is anticipated to remain on the bench following Yasin Ayari’s goal-scoring performance against Mexico.
Predicted Sweden XI: Nordfelt; Lagerbielke, Hien, Lindelof; Bernhardsson, Nygren, Karlstrom, Ayari, Gudmundsson; Isak, Gyokeres
Injury doubt: Gabriel Gudmundsson
