The Netherlands have never lost to Japan in the pair's three previous encounters, picking up two wins and a draw. However, that stalemate did arrive the last time the two nations locked horns back in 2013, a game in which both teams found the back of the net.
The Dutch haven't lost a group game at the World Cup since their 1994 1-0 defeat to Belgium, and that should stand Ronald Koeman's side in good stead ahead of a tricky opening match against Japan.
Japan caused a few upsets at the 2022 World Cup, beating both Germany and Spain 2-1 during the group stage. Traditionally, Japan has had mixed results in the World Cup group stage since its first appearance in 1998. but have made it through to the Round of 16 at each of the last two tournaments.
The Netherlands scored in each of their World Cup qualifying matches, but both games against their toughest opponent, Poland, ended in stalemates, with both teams scoring. Japan only lost once during the qualifiers and only failed to score in two of their 16 outings.
Japan also scored in each of their last three international friendlies against Scotland, England and Iceland, so you can see why we've backed both teams to score on Sunday.
Netherlands 1-1 Japan
