Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman provided a major boost to his team's World Cup preparations, confirming that both Memphis Depay and goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen are fit to start Sunday's Group F opener against Japan.
Depay, a key attacking figure for the Dutch, had faced minor fitness questions heading into the tournament. Verbruggen's availability as the first-choice goalkeeper removes any concerns about the team's defensive organization.
The fitness clearance comes 24 hours before the Netherlands' opening match on June 15. Japan will present a formidable challenge in the group, making the availability of Netherlands' key players crucial for securing three points.
Betting impact: Confirmed fitness of Depay and Verbruggen strengthens Netherlands' tournament odds and Group F win markets; Japan's odds shift longer as the Dutch deploy their full-strength starting XI.
→ Match stats and preview on ScanGoal