Netherlands national team coach Ronald Koeman has confirmed that goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen is fully fit and will start in the upcoming World Cup 2026 match against Japan. Koeman announced this during a press conference held at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas, stating Verbruggen participated fully in training sessions on both preceding days. This decision indicates Verbruggen has recovered sufficiently to take his place as the starting goalkeeper for the crucial opening game. Mark Flekken has been designated as the second-choice goalkeeper for the tournament. The confirmation provides clarity on the goalkeeping position ahead of the team’s first match. Koeman’s announcement alleviates concerns about Verbruggen’s fitness following recent evaluations.