THE CONTENDERS - Wounded Dutch still dangerous

The Dutch have come into this World Cup a little understrengthed, with key players Jurrien Timber, Xavi Simons, and Matthijs de Ligt all ruled out through injury.

But their No. 8 world ranking must not be scoffed at.

In their first game against Japan, they were twice pegged back in a 2-2 draw that suggests they could be in for a fight. But that fight isn’t new for them.

The Netherlands hold the unfortunate record for the most FIFA World Cup final appearances without ever lifting the trophy; a reputation of consistent near-misses that the Oranje have failed to shake.

Despite the lack of a true superstar, the Netherlands boast a squad of reliable and proven players who can go on a deep run in the World Cup, backed by loud travelling support.

But they still have the class of Frenkie De Jong, Memphis Depay, who came on in their 2-2 draw last week, and the mercurial Cody Gakpo. Donyell Malen is also expected to provide them with a little umph up front.

Players to watch: Virgil van Dijk, Frenkie De Jong, Cody Gakpo, Memphis Depay

Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia