World Cup 2026 Day 4: Netherlands vs Japan, Curacao Debut, Schedule and Predictions

The Lead

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached its fourth day, with several exciting matches lined up for fans around the world. The headline event on Sunday is the Netherlands vs Japan group match, alongside Curacao's historic debut against Germany.

Match Schedule for Day 4

Germany vs Curacao: NRG Stadium, Houston – 12pm local (17:00 GMT)
Netherlands vs Japan: AT&T Stadium, Dallas – 2pm local (20:00 GMT)
Ivory Coast vs Ecuador: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia – 7pm local (23:00 GMT)
Sweden vs Tunisia: Estadio Monterrey, Guadulpe – 7:30pm local (02:00 GMT Sunday)

Netherlands Face Japan in Must-Watch Group Game

The Netherlands, three-time runners-up in the World Cup, face Japan in what promises to be an exciting group match. Japan, known for their ability to pull off major upsets, will look to challenge the Dutch.

Tiny Curacao Set to Make World Cup History in Germany Test

Curacao, the smallest nation to ever compete at the World Cup, begins their tournament against four-time world champions Germany. Despite being heavy underdogs, Curacao's coach Dick Advocaat believes his team can make life difficult for Germany.

Predictions for Key Matches

Netherlands vs Japan: Netherlands have a 50.2% chance of winning, Japan 24.5%, and a draw 25.2%
Germany vs Curacao: Germany have a 90.7% chance of winning, Curacao 3.6%, and a draw 5.7%
Ivory Coast vs Ecuador: Ivory Coast 37.5%, Ecuador 35.2%, and a draw 27.3%
Sweden vs Tunisia: Sweden 51.1%, Tunisia 23.2%, and a draw 25.7%

New York's Victorious Knicks Leave World Cup in the Cold

In New York, the excitement around the World Cup was overshadowed by the Knicks' NBA Finals win, which sparked widespread celebrations across the city.