The Netherlands national football team was eliminated on Sunday in the Nations League by Spain. Ronald Koeman, the national coach, saw his team lose 5-4 after a thrilling match in the penalty shootout.

What happened?

The Netherlands national football team ended up in a difficult group with Spain, Poland, Finland, Lithuania, and Malta. Due to the loss against Spain, the Netherlands will be in World Cup qualification group G with Poland, Finland, Lithuania, and Malta.

Why is this beneficial for the Netherlands?

The first scenario seems easier on paper. Turkey is ranked 28th in the FIFA world rankings and Poland is 35th. Georgia and Bulgaria also seem tougher than Lithuania and Malta.

What's next?

Last result: Netherlands 5-1 Sweden (2026-06-20). Next match: vs Tunisia (away, 2026-06-25). | Stat | Value | | --- | --- | | Last result | Netherlands 5-1 Sweden | | Next match | vs Tunisia (away) |

What does the route to the Nations League final look like?

In early June, the semifinals and finals of the Nations League will be played. This will take place in Turin or in Munich and Stuttgart.