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FC·PREVIEW·June 20, 2026 12:11 PM ET

De Jong named in Netherlands lineup to face Sweden despite fitness fears

De Jong cleared to start despite a fitness scare.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jun 201 min read
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What happened: Frenkie de Jong has been named in Netherlands' starting lineup for their second group match against Sweden, easing earlier concerns over his fitness. The announcement comes with kickoff a little over an hour away. The Dutch are chasing their first points after dropping their opener.

Why it matters: De Jong anchors the Netherlands midfield, so his availability carries real weight as Ronald Koeman's side look to recover from an opening loss. Earlier reports had flagged the midfielder as a doubt, which makes his inclusion in the XI notable. A settled midfield could shape how the Dutch approach a Sweden side that has started strongly.

By the numbers: Sweden arrive unbeaten this season at 1-0, having posted a 5-1 result over Tunisia on June 14 and carrying a one-game winning streak. Netherlands sit 0-1, conceding 2.0 goals per game across their early sample and still searching for their first points of the campaign.

What to watch: Watch whether de Jong is able to last the full 90 minutes given the discomfort concerns, and whether his presence steadies a Netherlands side under early pressure. Kickoff is imminent.

Sources

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