Netherlands 5-1 Sweden: Gakpo double leads attacking masterclass
Netherlands thrashed Sweden 5-1 in a crucial Group F clash, with Cody Gakpo scoring twice and assisting once, while Brian Brobbey also bagged a brace. The Dutch moved top on goal difference.
In a crucial Group F clash at NRG Stadium in Houston on June 25, 2026, the Netherlands thrashed Sweden 5-1 to move top of the group on goal difference, leapfrogging Japan. The Dutch displayed ruthless efficiency, scoring five goals from just 10 shots (7 on target), while Sweden managed only one goal from 16 shots (8 on target).
The first half was dominated by the Netherlands. In the 5th minute, Cody Gakpo set up Brian Brobbey for the opener. In the 17th minute, Denzel Dumfries assisted Brobbey again for his second goal, making it 2-0 at halftime. Sweden had nearly 50% possession but failed to find the net.
The Dutch continued their onslaught in the second half. In the 47th minute, Dumfries turned provider again for Gakpo. In the 54th minute, Crysencio Summerville assisted Gakpo for his second goal, making it 4-0. Sweden pulled one back in the 59th minute through Anthony Elanga, assisted by Alexander Isak. However, Memphis Depay set up Summerville in the 89th minute to seal the 5-1 victory.
Statistically, the Netherlands had 51% possession (449 passes, 89% accuracy) while Sweden had 49% (425 passes, 85% accuracy). Sweden outshot the Netherlands 16-10, but the Dutch had 7 shots on target to Sweden's 8. Expected goals favored the Netherlands 2.61 to 1.01. Sweden led in corners 5-2, fouls 12-9, and received three yellow cards. The Dutch goalkeeper made 7 saves, while Sweden's keeper made 2.
Man of the match was Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo, who scored twice and assisted once, earning a 9.3 rating. The 26-year-old Liverpool star, born in Eindhoven, had 4 shots, 1 key pass, and 20 passes in a stellar performance.
In Group F standings, the Netherlands and Japan are tied on 4 points, but the Dutch lead on goal difference (+4, 7 scored, 3 conceded) compared to Japan's +4 (6 scored, 2 conceded). Sweden sits third with 3 points, while Tunisia is bottom with 0 points.
For the Netherlands, this emphatic win puts them in control ahead of their final group match against Tunisia, needing only a draw to advance. Sweden, meanwhile, must beat Japan in their final match to have any chance of progressing.
The Netherlands face Tunisia on June 26, while Sweden take on Japan. Both matches kick off at 07:00 Beijing time.