Netherlands wants no surprises in historic game for women's refereeing

The Netherlands team does not want surprises and, after the doubts of its debut against Japan (2-2), hopes to prolong the positive sensations of its defeat of Sweden (5-1) to certify its classification for the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup as first in group F. To achieve this, the 'oranje', led on the field by Ronald Koeman and on the field by Frenkie de Jong, need to fulfill the predictions and defeat the already eliminated Tunisia (bottom after two defeats), in addition to hoping that Japan, with whom they are tied on points (4) and balance (2-2), will not win by more goals than Sweden.

A draw could also be enough for the Netherlands to advance, but first place would already be at risk and even a defeat could be favorable. On the other hand, Tunisia is just looking to say goodbye to the tournament with dignity after its defeats against Sweden (5-1), which culminated in the dismissal of Sabri Lamouchi, and Japan (0-4) in Hervé Renard's debut in charge.


Regardless of the result, this game will be historic, as it will be the third in all editions of the World Cup led by a woman, the Mexican Katia García, who follows in the footsteps of the French Stéphanie Frappart, who refereed the Germany-Costa Rica in Qatar 2022, and the American Tori Penso, who was in charge of the Czech Republic and South Africa in the current tournament.

The 'oranje' counts on the support of its large fans and seeks to extend its record of 16 consecutive matches without losing in World Cups, in the 90 minutes or in extra time, as in 2014 and 2022 (it did not participate in 2018) it fell on penalties. The last defeat was in the 2010 South Africa final against Spain.

Koeman can repeat the team that defeated Sweden, as long as Frenkie de Jong's physical pain does not prevent him from playing. In attack, Brian Brobbey, who scored a double against the Nordics, should start again, to the detriment of Crysencio Summerville, who started on the bench after starting against Japan. Memphis Depay, still recovering from injuries, remains an option on the bench.

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