Netherlands dominant in World Cup 2026 qualifying; Malen struggles to impress Koeman

An exploration of how pre-season retreats have contributed to Roma's most successful campaigns throughout the club's history. The article examines various retreat locations—both coastal and mountainous—and their connection to championship-winning seasons. By stepping back from regular routines, Roma has historically built cohesive, winning squads during these preparatory periods. The feature traces how strategic breaks and team-building exercises at different venues have laid foundations for Roma's golden eras, suggesting that proper preparation and team bonding during retreats remain crucial elements in constructing successful seasons.

Roma may field Brazilian full-backs on both flanks next season, with Wesley and Dodô potentially forming an all-Brazil wing pairing under coach Gian Piero Gasperini. The analysis focuses on Dodô's technical profile, highlighting his pace and one-on-one defensive and attacking capabilities that align with Gasperini's tactical demands. Such a setup would give Roma attacking width and dynamic ball-carriers on the flanks, reinforcing the coach's preference for explosive, direct play in wide areas.

An analysis of AS Roma's 2025–26 season examines the underlying numbers and performances that shaped the club's campaign beyond the headline achievement of securing third place and Champions League qualification. The piece focuses on individual contributions from key players including Gianluca Mancini, Bryan Cristante, and Artem Dovbyk, exploring statistical insights that reveal the full picture of Roma's season. While Roma achieved a strong final league position, the deeper metrics highlight both standout individual performances and areas of note across the campaign. The analysis provides context for understanding how specific players and tactical elements influenced the overall outcome.

Donyell Malen will play on the right wing for the Netherlands in their Group B match against Sweden, a fixture already crucial after drawing 0–0 against Japan in their opening game. Coach Ronald Koeman has reshaped the attacking setup, positioning Gakpo on the left, Malen on the right, and Brobbey of Sunderland as the central striker. This marks a change from the first match, where Malen operated in a more central role. Koeman's tactical adjustment aims to generate more attacking opportunities as the Netherlands seeks vital goals in what is effectively a knockout stage match. Malen, who plays for AS Roma in Serie A, will be crucial to the team's attacking threat on the flank rather than leading the line. The strategic shift reflects Koeman's desire to optimize the team's attacking balance while still utilizing Malen's pace and technical abilities in a different capacity. The match against Sweden kicks off at 19:00 local time and represents a critical encounter for the Netherlands' tournament progression.

AS Roma winger Donyell Malen is set to play a leading role for the Netherlands in their World Cup match against Sweden. The tournament has reached a critical phase, and Malen faces an important opportunity to make an impact in attack after a positive opening performance. The extent of his involvement and match details remain unclear from the available information.

Five AS Roma players will feature for their respective nations during Saturday's second round of the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Midfielder Manu Koné remains the sole Roma player absent from Saturday's fixtures, as France is not scheduled until Monday 22 June against Iraq. Koné came off the bench in France's opening 3–1 victory over Senegal. The Roma contingent's Saturday schedule opens at midnight with Scotland versus Morocco at Foxborough, featuring Morocco's El Aynaoui and Bouaddi — both expected to start. Morocco drew 1–1 with Brazil in their opener, while Scotland won 1–0 against Haiti. Brazil, without Wesley, faces Haiti at 2:30 a.m. Defender Ndicka watched from the bench in Côte d'Ivoire's opening match and is expected to feature against Germany at Toronto Stadium. Türkiye's Çelik, who started their surprise 2–0 loss to Australia, plays Paraguay at 5 a.m. after Paraguay suffered a 4–1 defeat to the USA. Forward Donyell Malen headlines Roma's evening fixtures alongside Ndicka. Malen, who has not yet scored for the Netherlands, will compete for a starting spot against Sweden in Houston, though Depay is also in contention. The Netherlands drew 2–2 with Japan in their opening match.