Sports
World Cup: Netherlands Thrash Sweden 5-1 to Close in on Knockout Stage
The Netherlands produced one of the most dominant performances of the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far, crushing Sweden 5-1 in Houston on Saturday to move to the brink of qualification for the knockout rounds.
Goals from Cody Gakpo and Brian Brobbey, who both scored twice, powered Ronald Koeman's side to a convincing victory in front of nearly 69,000 spectators.
The Dutch now lead Group F with four points from two matches, ahead of Sweden on three points, while Japan and Tunisia were still due to meet later on Saturday.
Brobbey, handed his first start of the tournament, made an immediate impact. The Sunderland striker opened the scoring after just five minutes, finishing a move he started with Gakpo. Twelve minutes later, he doubled the advantage by reacting quickest to a deflected cross from Denzel Dumfries.
Despite trailing 2-0, Sweden created several opportunities but failed to capitalize. The attacking duo of Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres struggled to break down a Dutch defense backed by an excellent performance from goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
The Netherlands effectively ended the contest shortly after halftime. Dumfries delivered another dangerous low cross, allowing Gakpo to score from close range. The Liverpool forward then added a brilliant fourth goal on 54 minutes, cutting inside before firing into the bottom corner.
Sweden managed a response through substitute Anthony Elanga, who raced clear and finished confidently to make it 4-1. However, the Dutch had the final say when Crysencio Summerville came off the bench to score late and complete the 5-1 rout.
The result represents a significant statement from Koeman's team after their opening 2-2 draw with Japan. With their attack firing on all cylinders and qualification now within reach, the Netherlands have emerged as one of the tournament's early contenders.
Sweden, despite the heavy defeat, remain well placed to challenge for a place in the last 32 and will look to bounce back in their crucial next match against Japan, while the Netherlands take on Tunisia.
