Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk believes the Dutch national team has the quality, experience and unity required to challenge for their first-ever FIFA World Cup title at the 2026 tournament.
Speaking to FIFA ahead of the finals, the Liverpool defender expressed confidence in a squad he believes has matured significantly since the team's heartbreaking quarter-final exit to eventual champions Argentina at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
"We have a really tight-knit group and I really believe in it," Van Dijk said. "When I look at the group and what we can achieve, I truly believe we can do something very special."
The 34-year-old acknowledged that success at a World Cup depends on more than talent alone, citing factors such as injuries, moments of individual brilliance and good fortune. However, he stressed that the Netherlands possess a strong blend of experience and quality.
Many members of the current squad gained valuable tournament experience during UEFA Euro 2024, while several are now established stars at top European clubs.
"A lot of them are now in their prime," Van Dijk said. "Most of them also play for really big clubs at Champions League level. But for me it always comes down to the fact that it's not about having great players, it's about who has the best team."
The Dutch have reached the World Cup final in 1974 and 1978 and came agonisingly close again in 2010, when they were beaten by Spain after extra time. Van Dijk admitted that memory still lingers among Dutch supporters.
"We all remember that chance Arjen Robben had, when Iker Casillas managed to save it with his toe," he said. "For a small country like the Netherlands, we've done pretty well so far. It's just that we want to win that cup."
Van Dijk also reflected on the dramatic quarter-final against Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, when the Dutch fought back from two goals down before losing on penalties.
"It was a very intense game that I've thought about for a long time," he said. "We staged an incredible comeback and perhaps should have kept pushing through. At least you can say that you lost to the world champions."
The defender, who missed a penalty in the shootout, said the experience reinforced the importance of preparation but also highlighted the unpredictable nature of football.
"Up until the Argentina match, I had scored every penalty during training. Then comes the match, and you miss. That's a bitter pill, but that's football."
As captain, Van Dijk said his primary responsibility is to help the team perform collectively rather than focus on individual achievements. While leading the Netherlands to World Cup glory would be the pinnacle of his international career, he insists the squad must remain grounded.
"There will always be expectations," he said. "We just need to have a plan as a team, pull in the same direction and be successful."
Having experienced his first World Cup finals in Qatar, Van Dijk is eager to return to football's biggest stage and believes the lessons learned from recent tournaments can help the Dutch finally end their long wait for global success.
"It's the pinnacle – representing your country at a World Cup," he said. "We'll go for it, and hopefully be successful with it."
