The Netherlands will take on Morocco in their round of 32 clash at the World Cup in the early hours of Tuesday morning, but Ronald Koeman must do without two key players. Xavi Simons (ruptured ACL) and Jurriën Timber (persistent groin issue) have been ruled out of the tournament, leaving the Dutch coach with several key decisions for the showdown against the 2022 semi-finalists.
Kick-off is at 2am UK time on Tuesday, June 30, at the Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe, Mexico – the venue hosting its fourth and final match of the tournament. Koeman will be boosted by the availability of Denzel Dumfries and Brian Brobbey, who have both been passed fit after earlier concerns.
“Netherlands face Morocco without Xavi Simons and Jurriën Timber due to injury in World Cup round of 32.”
UK viewers can watch the match live and free-to-air on ITV1 and STV, with coverage starting at 1am. Alternatively, fans can stream via ITVX and STV Player on smart TVs, tablets and mobile devices. For those in the US, the game is on FOX Network and Telemundo, with streams on Peacock, fuboTV and the FOX Sports app (kick-off 9pm ET / 6pm PT on June 29). Live radio commentary is available on BBC Radio 5 Live and talkSPORT.
Morocco, who reached the semi-finals four years ago, will pose a significant test for a Netherlands side already depleted by injuries. Koeman must now decide who fills the creative void left by Simons and the defensive solidity of Timber as he finalises his starting lineup for this winner-takes-all encounter.