The Netherlands national football team can take a big step towards the next round of the World Cup 2026 on Saturday. With a win against Sweden, Oranje will have four points in the group and, according to data models, this is almost certain to secure a place in the knockout phase. Ronald Koeman, the coach of the Dutch national team, will have his team give everything to win this match. The head-to-head balance between the Netherlands and Sweden is in favor of Oranje, with three wins and three draws in the seven meetings this century. The only time Sweden won was in October 2011, with a 3-2 win in the European Championship qualifiers. The Dutch national team has already experienced a similar scenario, at the European Championship 2024 in Germany, Oranje finished in the group behind Austria and France with four points, which was enough to finish among the best third-placed teams and thus advance to the knockout phase. Furthermore, the data models also show that a points total of three in the group stage is enough to advance in two-thirds of the cases. If the Dutch national team, after the draw against Japan, also draws against Sweden and Tunisia, it is possible that there is still no need to worry. However, Oranje will sleep more comfortably with a win against Sweden. The big bookmakers give Ronald Koeman's team a good chance. The Netherlands is the clear favorite everywhere. Other players, such as Koopmeiners, will also play an important role in this match. The Dutch national team is currently training in Kansas City, where the temperature is pleasant. Ronald Koeman's team is therefore well-prepared for the match against Sweden.