Netherlands
Group:
A
First Match:
November 22, 2022, 12 AM SGT
Stadium:
Al Thumama Stadium
After the disappointment of failing to qualify for the World Cup four years ago, the Netherlands began qualification for Qatar 2022 abysmally by losing 2–4 to Turkey in their opening game. However, with nine consecutive victories, the Netherlands overtook the Turks and secured first place, guaranteeing them a spot in the World Cup.
Although they have never won the tournament, the Netherlands has finished as runners-up three times: in 1974, 1986, and 2010. In 2014, they were eliminated in the semi-finals on penalty kicks by Argentina.
After finishing first in their group with three straight victories, they were eliminated by the Czech Republic in the quarterfinals of the 2016 European Championships, which was a major letdown by their standards.
Key Player: Memphis Depay (Barcelona)
After a sour experience with Manchester United, Depay revitalized his career with Lyon before going to Barcelona for the 2021/22 season. The 28-year-old also had a phenomenal 2021 for his country, scoring 17 goals in 16 games.
He continued his hot scoring streak into this year, netting twice in a 4-1 win over Belgium in the Nations League and the game-winning goal in a 3-2 win over Wales a few days later. This guy has the goal-scoring ability and will be the primary source of offense for the Dutch in Qatar.