​Netherlands and Morocco meet in the World Cup last-32 stage at Estadio Monterrey in the early hours of Tuesday, with a spot in the round of 16 up for grabs against Brazil or Japan. Ronald Koeman’s team led Group F with seven points, thanks to two wins and a draw, delivering one of the group stages’ most potent attacking performances. Morocco arrive with momentum of their own, aiming to extend their 32-match unbeaten run.
Netherlands team news is largely positive for Koeman. Denzel Dumfries and Brian Brobbey had both been reported to be carrying minor knocks, but they have been declared fit and are ready to start. Brobbey keeps his place as central striker, continuing to provide a physical presence that has underpinned the Dutch attack since his introduction against Sweden, with three goals in two starts at this tournament. The only change from the Tunisia match is Micky van de Ven returning at left-back. The Tottenham Hotspur defender was benched for the group finale but resumes a starting role, with Nathan Ake dropping out. Van de Ven’s pace on the left adds both defensive and attacking width that Ake cannot replicate to the same extent.
In midfield, Frenkie de Jong lines up alongside Ryan Gravenberch and Tijjani Reijnders, a trio that has offered both defensive cover and creative momentum throughout the group phase. Dumfries remains at right-back, while Donyell Malen and Cody Gakpo operate on the flanks, supporting central striker Brobbey. Virgil van Dijk captains the side from central defence, partnering with Jan Paul van Hecke, and Bart Verbruggen starts in goal.
Predicted Netherlands starting XI (4-3-3): Verbruggen; Dumfries, Van Hecke, Van Dijk, Van de Ven; Gravenberch, De Jong, Reijnders; Malen, Brobbey, Gakpo.
The kick-off is scheduled for 02:00 BST on Tuesday, 30 June 2026. The match will be shown live on ITV1 and ITVX in the UK.