The Netherlands took a big step toward the last 32 of the 2026 World Cup with a dominant 5-1 win over Sweden in Houston on Saturday.
Sweden came into Group F needing a win after beating Tunisia 5-1 in their opener. Instead, Graham Potterās side were blown apart by a rampant Dutch attack.
Brian Brobbey gave the Netherlands a 2-0 lead inside 17 minutes with a quick brace. Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo then scored twice in the first nine minutes of the second half to make it 4-0. Anthony Elanga pulled one back for Sweden, but it was only a consolation. Crysencio Summerville added a fifth for the Dutch in the 89th minute.
The result leaves the Netherlands on 4 points after their 2-2 draw with Japan in the opening game. With a +4 goal difference, they are almost certain to advance in the expanded 48-team tournament.
Later Saturday, Germany can join the Netherlands in the knockout round with a win over Ivory Coast in Toronto. Germany opened with a 7-1 thrashing of debutants Curacao. Coach Julian Nagelsmann said his team must watch out for Ivory Coastās pace, especially winger Nicolas Pepe.
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