Naft Gachsaran Overview

Van der Vaart compares Van Dijk to a 'Boeing 747' after Japan draw

Rafael van der Vaart has launched a stinging attack on Virgil van Dijk, comparing the Netherlands captain to a commercial airliner following a shaky defensive display against Japan. Despite the Liverpool man finding the net in the 2-2 draw, Van der Vaart admitted he was stunned by the defender's lack of mobility during the Netherlands' World Cup opener.

Netherlands v Poland - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier

Netherlands FIFA World Cup 2026 TV Schedule

GOAL’s complete Netherlands FIFA World Cup 2026 viewing guide, including how to watch for free and without cable!

Drab Dutch held despite Summerville moment of magic

The Netherlands conceded a late equaliser as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Japan in their opening game of the 2026 World Cup. Second-half strikes from Virgil van Dijk and Crysencio Summerville looked to have got the Oranje over the line, but they were pegged back on both occasions as Group F began in Dallas.

Pos	Team		P	W	D	L	F	A	+/-	PTS	Form
10	Beasat Kermanshah		29	9	11	9	24	22	2	35	D W D W L
11	Ario Islamshahr		28	6	14	8	12	14	-2	32	D D D D D
12	Naft Gachsaran	0 - 1	29	7	13	9	21	27	-6	31	L D D W W
13	Niroye Zamini	1 - 0	28	7	11	10	22	22	0	29	W D L D D
14	Kara Gostar		29	7	7	15	11	32	-21	25	D L W L W

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