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SRIPOKU.COM, PALEMBANG – Panggih Triatmojo has tipped the Netherlands national football team to claim the 2026 World Cup title.

His reasoning stems from the fact that De Oranje is the home country of legendary goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar.

The former Manchester United goalkeeper is an idol for the Sumsel United player from Musi Rawas Regency, South Sumatra.

"I’m backing the Netherlands to become the champions of the 2026 World Cup," Panggih told Sripoku.com on Monday (June 1, 2026).

Because of his admiration for van der Sar, Panggih admitted that he always supports the Netherlands national team in every World Cup tournament.

Although Edwin van der Sar is no longer part of the current squad, Panggih believes the Dutch defensive line remains strong.

The presence of Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk guarantees defensive solidity for Ronald Koeman’s side.

In midfield, Indonesian-descended midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, who plays for Manchester City, will be a key figure in orchestrating attacks for De Oranje.

"In my view, the current squad looks convincing enough and has what it takes to compete for the title," Panggih said.

Panggih also hopes that the 2026 World Cup will serve as motivation for young players from South Sumatra to pursue professional football careers in the Indonesian league.

He believes that South Sumatra’s football scene, supported by major clubs such as Sriwijaya FC and Sumsel United, provides a strong foundation for developing future professional players.

"We hope this will inspire our football scene to produce a new generation of players who can perform at the global level," he concluded.

Placed in the Group of Death

The Netherlands national team will begin their 2026 World Cup campaign in Group F alongside Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia.

This group can be considered one of the toughest, given the relatively balanced quality among the teams.

Sweden is likely to be the main challenger for Frenkie de Jong and his teammates in the race for the top spot in the group.

The Netherlands have faced Sweden 25 times in their history.

Although the Dutch have managed 12 wins and suffered eight losses, de Jong and company cannot afford to underestimate Sweden.

A Stage for the All-Time Top Scorer

The Netherlands national team will continue to rely on familiar faces for the 2026 World Cup.

In addition to van Dijk and de Jong, Memphis Depay remains a key figure not to be overlooked.

The former Manchester United striker holds the record as the all-time top scorer for the Dutch national team.

He has netted 55 goals in 108 appearances, surpassing former Arsenal striker Robin van Persie by five goals.

However, the player who rose to fame during his time at Lyon is now competing in a less demanding league.

Since his contract with Atletico Madrid was not renewed, the 32-year-old joined Corinthians in Brazil’s top division.

He is no longer a regular starter, often beginning matches on the bench.

From eight appearances with the Brazilian giants, Depay has scored only one goal.

Nonetheless, for the national team, Depay is still regarded as the right leader in attack.

He will be supported by AS Roma winger Donyell Malen, who has been in excellent form this season.

Given the experience of their core players, it is no surprise that the Netherlands remain one of the favorites to lift their first-ever World Cup trophy.