According to a recent report from insider Fabrizio Romano on X, Ronald Koeman has called up versatile defender Lutsharel Geertruida as Timber’s replacement. Geertruida currently plays for Sunderland and brings the flexibility to perform in multiple defensive roles.

“The 24-year-old defender has not recovered sufficiently from a groin injury to take part in the World Cup in a medically responsible manner,” the Netherlands said in relation to Timber via ESPN. “In consultation with the medical staff, it has therefore been decided that Timber will leave the national team’s pre-camp in New York after the game against Uzbekistan.”

The Netherlands are traditionally regarded as one of the contenders in every World Cup, despite never having lifted the trophy. The team continues to carry the ambition of securing its first world title and adding a long-awaited achievement to its rich history.

Defenders representing the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup

With Timber officially ruled out and his replacement confirmed, these are the defenders selected by Ronald Koeman and his coaching staff for the Netherlands’ World Cup campaign.

• Virgil Van Dijk
• Nathan Ake
• Jan Paul Van Hecke
• Matts Wieffer
• Micky van de Ven
• Denzel Dumfries
• Jorrel Hato
• Lutsharel Geertruida

Netherlands’ matches at the tournament

The Netherlands will kick off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in Group F, playing all three of their group stage matches in the United States. They will debut against Japan on June 14 at Dallas Stadium (AT&T Stadium) in Arlington, Texas.

For its second fixture, the Dutch squad will head to Houston, Texas, to face Sweden on June 20 at Houston Stadium (NRG Stadium). Finally, it will wrap up the group stage with a clash against Tunisia on June 25 at Kansas City Stadium (GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium) in Missouri.

How to watch Netherlands vs Uzbekistan in the USA

Soccer fans in the United States can catch all the live action on FOX Soccer Plus as this marquee showdown unfolds.

Those who prefer to stream can follow the match through Fubo and ViX, ensuring they don’t miss a single moment from kickoff to the final whistle.

Can I watch Netherlands vs Uzbekistan for free?

Viewers in the United States can watch this high-profile matchup live on Fubo, which includes access to the channel broadcasting the game nationwide.

Fubo offers a free trial period for first-time users. You can take advantage of a 5-day free trial to see this game.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

The Netherlands and Uzbekistan meet in a World Cup tune-up with different objectives in mind. The Dutch are using the match to fine-tune a squad hoping to finally capture its first World Cup title after three runner-up finishes.

Meanwhile, Uzbekistan continues preparations for its historic first appearance on the global stage. With both sides looking to build momentum before the tournament begins, this matchup promises to be an intriguing test.

Netherlands vs Uzbekistan: Predicted Lineups

Netherlands (4-3-3): Verbruggen; Dumfries, Van Hecke, Van Dijk, Ake; De Jong, Gravenberch, Reijnders; Summerville, Depay, Gakpo.

Uzbekistan (5-4-1): Yusupov; Sayfiev, Abdullaev, Khusanov, Ashurmatov, Nasrullaev; Fayzullaev, Hamrobekov, Shukurov, Uronov; Shomurodov.

What time is the Netherlands vs Uzbekistan match?

The match kicks off today, June 8, at 2:45 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 2:45 PM
Central Time: 1:45 PM
Mountain Time: 12:45 PM
Pacific Time: 11:45 AM

The Round of 16 showdown, played at the FIFA World Cup 2006 in Germany, became instantly known as the “Battle of Nuremberg” due to its extraordinary level of aggression and disciplinary chaos.

Russian referee Valentin Ivanov struggled to contain repeated fouls, confrontations and heated exchanges, as both sides pushed the limits of physical play in a match that felt more like a war of attrition than a soccer contest.

What records were broken in Portugal vs Netherlands 2006?

The Portugal vs Netherlands match at the 2006 FIFA World Cup broke the record for the most disciplinary sanctions in a World Cup match, with 16 yellow cards and 4 red cards issued. In total, the match had 20 cards.

The Round of 16 clash, played on June 25, 2006 at the FIFA World Cup in Germany, quickly escalated into one of the most chaotic and controversial matches ever seen on soccer’s biggest stage.

The match also set a record for the most red cards ever shown in a single World Cup game, with four players being sent off. Referee Valentin Ivanov struggled to maintain control in a match that quickly escalated into heated confrontations.

Instead of settling into a tactical knockout-stage battle, the game became fragmented and increasingly emotional as both sides struggled to maintain discipline. The situation peaked in a second half that unraveled the match.

Which players were sent off in Portugal vs Netherlands 2006?

The four players sent off in the 2006 World Cup match were Costinha and Deco for Portugal, and Khalid Boulahrouz and Giovanni van Bronckhorst for the Netherlands. All four red cards came after second yellow cards.

Costinha was the first player dismissed, receiving his second yellow card before halftime after a handball incident, leaving Portugal temporarily reduced to ten men. His sending-off came during an already tense period of the match.

In the second half, the game completely unraveled. Khalid Boulahrouz was sent off after a series of heavy challenges, including earlier involvement in a dangerous foul on Cristiano Ronaldo, who was forced to leave the match injured.

Deco later followed, receiving a second yellow card for persistent fouling and dissent, further escalating the chaos on the pitch. Finally, Giovanni van Bronckhorst became the last player dismissed, sealing a dramatic ending.

Has any World Cup match come close to breaking this record?

No World Cup match has come close to breaking the disciplinary record set in Portugal vs Netherlands 2006, although a few have approached it in terms of intensity and total bookings. The “Battle of Nuremberg” remains the benchmark.

One of the closest examples came during the 2022 FIFA World Cup quarter-final between Netherlands and Argentina, which produced 18 yellow cards, 1 red card and heated confrontations, but it still did not match the clash.

Across different editions, there have been isolated matches with heavy discipline—sometimes reaching double-digit yellow cards—but none have replicated the combination of four red cards plus a high yellow-card count seen in 2006.

That moment arrived in the 86th minute, when Hadj Moussa received the ball on the right, cut inside onto his left foot, and unleashed a superb curling shot into the far corner to give Algeria the lead.

The final whistle confirmed a strong showing from Algeria, who combined efficiency, defensive order, and a moment of individual brilliance to take the win. The Netherlands, meanwhile, showed flashes of danger but lacked precision in the decisive moments as both sides continue their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

How to watch Netherlands vs Algeria in the USA

Viewers in the United States can catch all the live coverage of this highly anticipated matchup through FOX Soccer Plus.

Fans looking to stream the contest online can tune in via Fubo or ViX, offering multiple ways to watch every moment as it happens.

Can I watch Netherlands vs Algeria for free?

Fans in the United States can catch this much-anticipated contest live through Fubo, the streaming platform offering access to the network airing the matchup across the country.

While Fubo frequently offers a 5-day free trial to new subscribers, that promotion is not available for this event, leaving no free live streaming option in the USA.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Algeria will look to continue its rise as a dangerous international contender when it meets the Netherlands in a high-profile friendly ahead of the World Cup. The North African side hopes to build momentum against elite opposition.

The Dutch, meanwhile, use another key opportunity to sharpen a squad determined to finally capture the World Cup title that has long eluded one of soccer’s most storied nations.

With both teams focused on reaching top form before the tournament, this matchup promises to be a competitive and revealing test. Don’t miss this intriguing clash between two ambitious World Cup hopefuls.

Netherlands vs Algeria: Predicted Lineups

Netherlands (4-3-3): Flekken; Dumfries, de Vrij, van Dijk, Aké; Gravenberch, De Jong, Reijnders; Malen, Brobbey, Gakpo.

Algeria (4-3-3): Benbot; Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Aït-Nouri; Zerrouki, Bentaleb, Chaïbi; Mahrez, Gouiri, Amoura.

What time is the Netherlands vs Algeria match?

The match kicks off today, June 3, at 2:45 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 2:45 PM
Central Time: 1:45 PM
Mountain Time: 12:45 PM
Pacific Time: 11:45 AM

On Saturday, April 25, the 23-year-old midfielder remained on the ground in pain with his right knee and had to be taken off on a stretcher with clear signs of discomfort during the crucial 1-0 win by Tottenham over Wolves, already relegated. The club later confirmed he ruptured the Anterior Cruciate Ligament in his right knee.

Meanwhile, Netherlands face a significant setback. Xavi Simons was expected to play a key role at the World Cup, and his absence forces a major tactical rethink. They will debut in the World Cup on June 13 against Japan in Group F, which they share with Sweden and Tunisia.

Xavi Simons’ message that moves the world

Through his social media channels, Xavi Simons shared an emotional message, expressing the heartbreak he is experiencing during this difficult time. It makes complete sense after the hard work he has put in.

“They say life can be cruel and today it feels that way. My season has come to an abrupt end and I’m just trying to process it. Honestly, I’m heartbroken. None of it makes sense.”

“All I’ve wanted to do is fight for my team and now the ability to do that has been snatched away from me, along with the World Cup. Representing my country this summer, just gone. It will take time to find peace with this, but I will continue to be the best teammate I can be. I have no doubt that together we will win this fight. I will walk this path now, guided by faith, with strength, with resilience, with belief, as I count down the days to getting back out there. Be patient with me.”

Hard blow for Tottenham and Netherlands

The absence of Simons arrives at the worst possible moment for Tottenham, who are fighting to avoid relegation in the Premier League. The London side is in a delicate position in the standings and now lost one of their most decisive players.

In addition, the injury crisis at the club deepens. Players such as Cristian Romero, Wilson Odobert, Dejan Kulusevski, and Ben Davies have also been out with different physical issues, leaving the team with limited options in a decisive stretch.

For their part, Netherlands also suffered a major setback. Xavi Simons was called to be one of the key pieces at the World Cup, and his absence forces a rethink of the team structure and search for other variables to have a great path during the tournament.

Shortly after the match began, Willian Pacho opened the scoring for the home side with an own goal. In the 23rd minute of the first half, Enner Valencia leveled the score with a penalty.

In an end-to-end match that grew more physical as the minutes passed, one of the standout moments was Dumfries’ sending off. The Netherlands effectively played almost the entire game with one man down.

Two World Cup-bound teams expected to contend on the biggest stage meet in a high-profile friendly as the Netherlands aim to carry momentum from a gritty 2-1 win over Norway into another tough test.

They will face Ecuador, who arrives with confidence after a 1-1 draw against Morocco and a young, talented roster that has proven it can challenge top competition, setting the stage for a compelling showdown against one of Europe’s traditional powers.

When will the Netherlands vs Ecuador match be played?

Netherlands take on Ecuador in a 2026 friendly game this Tuesday, March 31, with the match kicking off at 2:45 PM (ET). Follow our liveblog of Netherlands vs Ecuador and don’t miss a single thing!

Netherlands vs Ecuador: Time by State in the USA

ET: 2:45 PM
CT: 1:45 PM
MT: 12:45 PM
PT: 11:45 AM

How to watch Netherlands vs Ecuador in the USA

This International Friendly clash between Netherlands and Ecuador will be available for viewers in the USA on ViX.

[Watch Netherlands vs Norway online in the US on Fubo]

Two European powers clash in a high-level friendly as both teams fine-tune preparations for the approaching World Cup. Norway, back on the global stage and led by star striker Erling Haaland, looks to build momentum against elite competition

Facing the Nordic side will be a strong rival like the Netherlands— a team with rich history and talented players—, who continues its shaping a squad capable of making a deep 2026 World Cup run.

When will the Netherlands vs Norway match be played?

Netherlands take on Norway in a 2026 friendly game this Friday, March 27, with the match kicking off at 3:45 PM (ET).

Netherlands vs Norway: Time by State in the USA

ET: 3:45 PM
CT: 2:45 PM
MT: 1:45 PM
PT: 12:45 PM

How to watch Netherlands vs Norway in the USA

This Friendly clash between Netherlands and Norway will be available for viewers in the USA on Fubo. Other options: FOX Soccer Plus and ViX.

In doing so, and leaving no doubts, the Netherlands secured their direct ticket to the next World Cup, avoiding a potential playoff. One of Europe’s giants will be present next year in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

With this result, Poland finished in second place, which means Robert Lewandowski and his team will have to secure their spot in the next World Cup through a playoff.

Chasing their first title

The Netherlands are setting their sights on the upcoming 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico with the singular goal of finally capturing the sport’s biggest prize.

This tournament will mark the nation’s 12th World Cup appearance, a history highlighted by three agonizing runner-up finishes in 1974, 1978, and 2010. The Oranje have long been a powerhouse without a title, and they will be fiercely determined to overcome past heartbreaks and secure their inaugural World Cup championship on North American soil.

A generation that inspires hope

The Netherlands are banking on an exciting new generation of talent as they aim to finally conquer the world stage. This squad boasts an impressive core featuring world-class defensive stalwart Virgil van Dijk and dynamic center-back Matthijs de Ligt.

Fueling the midfield are the creative vision of Frenkie de Jong and the energy of Tijjani Reijnders, while the attack is spearheaded by the electrifying scoring ability of Cody Gakpo.

Koeman is at the helm of a squad brimming with extraordinary talent, aiming to make a big impact and win its first World Cup trophy—toppling none other than the reigning champions, Argentina.

The Netherlands drew 1–1 with Poland in their previous outing and now sit on 17 points from a possible 21, with five wins and two draws. Their path will be settled in this final matchday. Meanwhile, Lithuania arrive after a 0–0 draw with Israel in an international friendly.

Poland struck first through Jakub Kaminski in the 43rd minute and briefly dreamed of taking control of the group. However, Memphis Depay equalized just two minutes into the second half, earning a draw that kept the Netherlands firmly in control of their qualifying campaign.

Lithuania remain bottom of the group with only three points. They come into this match having tied Israel in a friendly and carrying three straight qualifying losses: 2–0 against Poland, 2–1 against Finland, and 3–2 against the Netherlands. With no stakes left for them, they essentially play only for pride.

What happens if the Netherlands win vs Lithuania?

A win would secure the Netherlands’ place in the 2026 World Cup, a result that is widely expected as they lead the group and stand one step away from clinching their ticket. Lithuania, already eliminated, would not change their position. Only Poland and the Netherlands remain in contention for qualification spots.

It is also important to note that no other team in the group has anything left to play for. Poland already secured a playoff berth with 14 points, while Finland sit on 10 and cannot catch them.

What happens if the Netherlands and Lithuania tie?

A tie would also send the Netherlands through, as their goal differential advantage over Poland is overwhelming (19 to 6). An additional point would be enough to confirm their place, while Poland would continue on to the playoff round.

What happens if the Netherlands lose vs Lithuania?

Even with a loss, the Netherlands are virtually guaranteed qualification. The only scenario that would deny them the top spot is losing by a margin of 12 goals or more against Lithuania, a highly improbable outcome. Barring that, the Netherlands will be in the World Cup.

But there is another unlikely scenario that could send them to the playoffs. A narrow defeat, such as 1–0 against Lithuania, would place them at risk only if Poland defeat Malta by a margin of 12 goals or more, which would allow Poland to overtake them on goal differential.