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PALEMBANG – Former Sumsel United defender Otto Kapisa has joined in the excitement ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada from 12 June to 20 July 2026.

Otto predicts that the Netherlands national team will be a strong contender for the title in the upcoming quadrennial tournament. He believes that De Oranje is still reinforced by several world-class players, including his favourite captain and defender, Virgil van Dijk.

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

The Netherlands have been drawn into Group F alongside Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia.

According to Otto, Japan could be a tough opponent due to the rapid development of football in the Land of the Rising Sun in recent years. He noted that Japan has often troubled major teams, even managing to defeat Germany in previous matches.

Meanwhile, Sweden is known for its well-organised style of play, while Tunisia could become a tricky opponent in the final group-stage match.

Nevertheless, Otto remains confident that the Netherlands will advance to the knockout stage. He believes that Ronald Koeman’s squad has excellent quality but must maintain consistency from the very first match.

“I think the Netherlands have a great chance because all the top players are included in their squad,” he added.

Otto also highlighted that Koeman has retained several experienced players who form the backbone of the team. Virgil van Dijk continues to be the key figure in defence, while Frenkie de Jong is entrusted with controlling the play in midfield. Up front, Memphis Depay and Cody Gakpo remain the main attacking options.

Additionally, names such as Justin Kluivert, Donyell Malen, and Brian Brobbey are ready to boost De Oranje’s attacking power.

The Netherlands have also included several promising young talents like Jorrel Hato and Jan Paul van Hecke. Their presence not only reflects a smooth regeneration process but also adds youthful energy to the squad.

In the goalkeeping department, Ronald 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. The combination of creativity, vision, and work ethic among these midfielders is seen as one of the Netherlands’ main strengths heading into the 2026 World Cup.

“With such a star-studded squad and many players competing in the English Premier League, this is a great opportunity for the Netherlands to win the World Cup,” Otto concluded.