Koeman's Open Training Draws 1,500 Fans in Zeist

The Netherlands national team held an open training session in the Zeist forest on Tuesday. Approximately 1,500 fans attended, making it the first public session under coach Ronald Koeman ahead of the World Cup.

All senior outfield stars appeared except Jurriën Timber, who had played the Champions League final with Arsenal the previous day. Present players included Frenkie de Jong, Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, Cody Gakpo and Memphis Depay.

Young supporters and their parents voiced confidence that the Oranje will win the tournament. One boy named Thomas told his father, “I think we will be world champions,” while his father added that the squad shows cohesion on the field.

Former internationals Denny Landzaat, John van Loen, Stan Valckx, Willy van de Kerkhof, Ernie Brandts, Jan Poortvliet and Theo de Jong were invited by the KNVB to watch the session. Van de Kerkhof said the team can become world champions and stressed the importance of beating Japan in the opening match.

Ronald Koeman commenced the drill at 12:00 and halted it after one hour, citing warm and humid weather. The conditions mirrored those expected in Kansas City, where the squad will train later. The side will train behind closed doors on Monday and Tuesday before flying to New York on Thursday for a short camp and a friendly against Uzbekistan.

Oranje’s World Cup campaign begins on 14 June in Dallas with a group‑stage clash against Japan.