The world ranking of March 31 determines the classification of the pots. Host Qatar and the first seven countries on the global ranking are in pot 1. The numbers 8 to 15 make up pot 2. The Netherlands is currently tenth in the world ranking, but will practice against Denmark before March 31 (March 26) and Germany (March 29).
The draw, which starts at 5:00 PM Dutch time, starts with pot 1 and ends with pot 4. During the draw, 29 of the 32 participants in the World Cup are known. Five of the eight groups have two European teams. Teams from continents other than Europe will be separated during the draw.
The opening match of the World Cup is on November 21, the final on December 18.