Netherlands bring physicality with their direct approach. Japan's discipline and technical quality can make this closer than expected.

Netherlands have won their last 3 meetings, including a 3-1 win at the 2022 World Cup. However, Japan have improved significantly.

Netherlands: Virgil van Dijk fit. Japan: Takefusa Kubo fully fit and expected to start.

Japan's pressing can trouble anyone, but the Netherlands' physical advantage and big-game experience should tell.

Netherlands or Draw at 74% confidence. Dutch experience and physicality suits the World Cup format.