Netherlands Consider Intentional Loss to Tunisia

The Netherlands may need to intentionally lose to Tunisia to avoid playing in Monterrey in the first knockout phase. Last result: Netherlands 2-2 Japan (2026-06-14).

What is the situation?

The Netherlands have a tough decision to make. If they win against Tunisia, they will have to play in Monterrey in the first knockout phase, where the temperature is extremely high. Valentijn Driessen says it's logical that everyone would rather play in Houston.

Why is this important for the Netherlands?

The Netherlands have always had the status of playing attacking football, giving it their all, and showing bravery and courage. If they intentionally lose to Tunisia, this could become a black page in the history of the Dutch national team. Driessen thinks that the Netherlands will become an international laughing stock if they deliberately lose to Tunisia.

What are the consequences?

If the Netherlands actually lose, this will result in enormous reputational damage, Driessen thinks. The next ten, twenty, thirty years we will be talking about it, but abroad it's even worse.