Netherlands vs. Sweden projected lineups, starting 11 for World Cup 2026 Group F game at NRG Stadium

Netherlands and Sweden meet on Saturday in Houston in a World Cup Group F game with very different moods in each camp heading into matchday two.

Sweden lead the group on three points after a stunning 5-1 demolition of Tunisia in the opening week, while the Netherlands were held to a 2-2 draw by Japan and sit third, already needing a result to take control of their own destiny.

Defeat would not mathematically eliminate either side, given the expanded tournament and the number of teams progressing from the group, but it would be a serious blow — and leave the Dutch in particular with work to do on the final matchday. How they set up will be critical.

Here is how we expect the teams to line up.

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Netherlands projected starting 11

(4-3-3, right to left): 1. B. Verbruggen (GK) — 22. D. Dumfries, 4. V. van Dijk, 3. M. van de Ven, 5. N. Ake — 14. T. Reijnders, 21. F. de Jong, 8. R. Gravenberch — 11. C. Gakpo, 10. M. Depay, 18. N. Lang

• Injured: M. Depay (thigh, doubt)
• Suspended: None

The big talking point for Ronald Koeman is what he learned from the Japan draw. Ryan Gravenberch and Crysencio Summerville were two of the Netherlands' best performers, Gravenberch supplying an assist and Summerville getting on the scoresheet, and with the Dutch 2-1 ahead, both were withdrawn before Japan hit back to level at 2-2.

The lesson is clear: Koeman has to get his substitutions right this time, because changing a winning shape cost his side two points. Expect a strong case for Summerville to start, with the front three under pressure to be more clinical.

Koeman confirmed that Memphis Depay should be ready to play as he continues his recovery from a thigh injury.

Sweden projected starting 11

(4-3-3, right to left): 1. V. Johansson (GK) — 2. G. Gudmundsson, 3. I. Hien, 5. V. Lindelof, 4. H. Ekdal — 8. L. Bergvall, 6. J. Karlstrom, 16. M. Svanberg — 11. A. Elanga, 9. V. Gyokeres, 10. A. Isak

• Injured: None
• Suspended: None

There is no reason for Sweden to change a thing. Having put five past Tunisia, they can name an unchanged XI and ride the momentum.

The Viktor Gyokeres-Alexander Isak partnership up front caused chaos and will again be the focus. Sweden can also afford to sit back and use Anthony Elanga's speed to hit the Netherlands on the counter-attack, especially as the Dutch push forward and leave gaps at the back.

The key battle is whether 20 year old Lucas Bergvall can get on top of Frenkie de Jong in midfield.

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Netherlands vs. Sweden predictions, betting odds

Both teams will back themselves, but Sweden have the momentum after scoring five in their opening game. The Netherlands have better players across the pitch and know a victory puts them back in control, so they should just about win a close, open game. However, they can't afford another slip like the one against Japan, especially with Gyokeres and Isak up front for Sweden. 

• Score prediction: Netherlands 2-1 Sweden

Netherlands vs. Sweden World Cup rosters

Here are the names on Netherlands vs. Sweden World Cup rosters. All caps and stats are correct as of the date of their announcement in May 2026.

Netherlands World Cup roster

Head coach: Ronald Koeman

Sweden World Cup squad

Head coach: Graham Potter

Where to watch Netherlands vs. Sweden

In USA:

• TV channel: FS1
• Live stream: fubo, Fox One, Fox Sports app/website

This match will be broadcast nationally on Fox in the United States with streaming options available on its dedicated platforms.

The best place to catch the match is on streaming service fubo, with new customers able to sign up for a FREE trial.

Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)

Here is how to watch the match in some of the other major territories: