World Cup 2026: Van Dijk, Gakpo, Gravenberch and Isak prepare for Group F showdown

Four Liverpool players will find themselves on opposite sides when the Netherlands and Sweden meet in a crucial Group F fixture at the 2026 World Cup.

The match is one of the standout contests of the second round of group-stage games, with both nations seeking a result that could significantly strengthen their chances of reaching the knockout stages.

While the encounter carries major importance in the race for qualification, it will also feature several intriguing battles between teammates who normally share the same dressing room at Anfield.

Sweden will once again look to striker Alexander Isak to lead their attack after an impressive start to the tournament. The forward played a key role in his country’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Tunisia and enters the match as one of Sweden’s main threats in the final third.

The Swedish side will hope Isak can continue the form that helped them begin their World Cup campaign in convincing fashion and move them closer to a place in the round of 16.

Standing in his way will be Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk, who is expected to marshal the Netherlands defence and take on the challenge of containing his Liverpool teammate.

The duel between Van Dijk and Isak is likely to be one of the most closely watched aspects of the contest, given the familiarity both players have with each other’s strengths and movements.

The Netherlands will also be able to call upon two other Liverpool players.

Midfielder Ryan Gravenberch is expected to provide control and creativity in the centre of the pitch, while forward Cody Gakpo will look to use his pace and attacking instincts to trouble the Swedish defence.

Their presence adds another layer of intrigue to a fixture already carrying significant importance for both teams.

The Dutch come into the match after an entertaining 2-2 draw against Japan in their opening Group F game. While they showed attacking quality, they will be aiming to tighten up defensively and secure their first victory of the tournament.

Sweden, meanwhile, arrive full of confidence following their dominant win over Tunisia.

With qualification implications already beginning to emerge, victory for either side would provide a valuable advantage heading into the final round of group matches.

For the Liverpool contingent involved, the encounter offers a rare opportunity to compete against familiar faces on one of football’s biggest stages.