World Cup 2026: Netherlands vs Sweden – Malen, Dumfries, Hien & Karlstrom start

The Netherlands vs Sweden is the first World Cup match of the day, as Group F gets underway in the second round of fixtures; the Swedes topping the group so far after their emphatic 5-1 victory over Tunisia in their opener.

The Dutch, meanwhile, were held to a thrilling 2-2 draw with Japan that came alive in the second half, but leaves them needing to win today if they have any hope of topping the group.

Roma striker Donyell Malen starts up front once again for Ronald Koeman’s team, whilst outgoing Inter right-back Denzel Dumfries features in defence.

Meanwhile, Atalanta’s Isak Hien and Udinese’s Jesper Karlstrom both start once again for Sweden.

On the bench, Atalanta’s Marten de Roon, Juventus man Teun Koopmeiners and Napoli-owned forward Noa Lang all sit for the Netherlands.

HOUSTON, TEXAS – JUNE 20: General view before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group F match between Netherlands vs Sweden at Houston Stadium on June 20, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)