Driessen warns Netherlands’ World Cup path is manageable

Journalist Valentijn Driessen cautioned optimism around the Netherlands national team after their convincing 5‑1 victory over Sweden on Tuesday. He warned that, despite the win, the Dutch World Cup route remains challenging but manageable, especially beyond the round of 32. The win propelled the Netherlands to the top of Group F, while Japan occupies second place with an identical goal difference. Both teams therefore share the same points tally after the group stage. On paper, the Netherlands would meet a Group C side in the round of 16. A quarter‑final opponent could then emerge from Group A or Group B, depending on the draw.

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Speaking on the Kick‑off podcast, Driessen observed, “Everything came together now, but against Sweden.” He added that a B‑country in the quarter‑final only occurs at a European Championship, not at a World Cup. The likely round‑of‑32 opponent is either Brazil or Morocco, Driessen predicts potential opponents such as South Korea, Switzerland or Canada in the next round. He suggests the Netherlands could still push deeper into the tournament. Driessen noted that the Netherlands made a much better impression in the Sweden game than in the earlier 2‑2 draw with Japan. He highlighted the contrast as a sign of progress for the squad.