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Netherlands Seal 2026 World Cup Berth With 4–0 Win as Koeman Calls for Stronger Leadership

Koeman points to a senior core to drive standards before next month’s draw.

Overview

  • A 4-0 victory over Lithuania secured top spot in qualifying and confirmed the Netherlands' place at the 2026 World Cup.
  • Ronald Koeman said he has high expectations for the tournament because the squad has substantial quality.
  • The coach urged players to demand more from each other, stressing that leadership cannot always come from the touchline.
  • He identified Virgil van Dijk, Frenkie de Jong, Memphis Depay, Nathan Ake and Denzel Dumfries as the experienced core of the team.
  • Koeman warned that errors at the finals could lead to an early exit, and the team now awaits next month’s draw to learn its group opponents.