Top News

SRIPOKU.COM, PALEMBANG – Former Sumsel United defender Otto Kapisa has tipped the Netherlands national team to claim the 2026 FIFA World Cup title, which will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 12 to July 20, 2026.

According to Otto, his confidence in the Oranje stems largely from the presence of his idol and central defender Virgil van Dijk, who continues to be a mainstay in Ronald Koeman’s defensive lineup.

“I’m going with the Netherlands because my favourite centre-back, Virgil van Dijk, is playing for them,” said Otto Kapisa on Wednesday (June 3, 2026).

The Netherlands are drawn in Group F alongside Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia. Otto believes Japan will pose a tough challenge, considering the rapid development of Japanese football in recent years.

In addition to Japan, Sweden are also regarded as having a well-organised playing system, while Tunisia could turn out to be a tricky opponent in the final group-stage match.

Nevertheless, Otto remains optimistic that the Netherlands will advance to the knockout rounds. He believes the team’s current squad depth gives the Oranje a strong foundation to compete all the way through to the latter stages of the tournament.

“I think the Netherlands have a huge chance because all the top players are part of their squad,” he added.

Otto praised Ronald Koeman for successfully blending experienced players with emerging talents. Virgil van Dijk continues to serve as the defensive leader, while Frenkie de Jong is entrusted with orchestrating play from midfield.

In attack, the Netherlands still rely on Memphis Depay and Cody Gakpo as their primary goal threats. They are supported by players such as Justin Kluivert, Donyell Malen, and Brian Brobbey, who add further firepower to the team.

The Netherlands have also included several promising young players, including Jorrel Hato and Jan Paul van Hecke, showcasing the team’s successful regeneration process.

For the goalkeeping role, Koeman has called up Mark Flekken, Robin Roefs, and Bart Verbruggen, who will compete for the starting position throughout the tournament.

In midfield, Frenkie de Jong will be supported by Ryan Gravenberch, Tijjani Reijnders, Teun Koopmeiners, Mats Wieffer, Quinten Timber, Maarten de Roon, and Guus Til.

According to Otto, the mix of players who mostly feature in Europe’s top leagues—particularly the English Premier League—forms one of the Netherlands’ greatest strengths in their quest for the world title.

“With such a star-studded squad dominated by players from the Premier League, this is a great opportunity for the Netherlands to become World Cup champions,” he concluded.