Netherlands have been dealt a major World Cup blow after Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber was ruled out of the tournament, confirmed on the eve of their final friendly against Uzbekistan in New York. The match, which kicks off at 7.45pm Monday at Icahn Stadium, serves as a last chance for both sides to fine-tune preparations before their World Cup 2026 campaigns begin later this week.
It is the first ever meeting between the two nations, making the fixture a unique tactical test for Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman. He faces a dilemma over the fitness of Memphis Depay, who is still building sharpness after a recent return from injury; in-form Roma striker Donyell Malen could start in his place. On the opposing side, Italian World Cup winner Fabio Cannavaro is working to instil defensive discipline in Uzbekistan's debutant squad, which has no major injury doubts.
“Netherlands face Uzbekistan in New York friendly after losing Arsenal's Jurrien Timber to injury ahead of World Cup.”
Fans in the UK will be unable to watch the match on television as no UK broadcaster has picked up the fixture. The action can be streamed via the NOS app or website, while viewers in the United States can watch live on Fubo, Fox Soccer Plus, or Fox Sports 1. There is no scheduled commentary on major UK radio stations, though the Dutch public broadcaster NPO Radio 1 will provide live audio via its sports program NOS Langs de Lijn.
Koeman will hope to lift his side after a 0-1 friendly defeat against Algeria, with Timber's absence adding to the concerns. The Netherlands now head into the World Cup without one of their key defenders, a significant setback as they aim to progress deep into the tournament.