The Netherlands delivered a commanding performance to storm to the top of Group F at the FIFA World Cup 2026, thrashing Sweden 5-1 in an entertaining encounter at Houston Stadium on Saturday.
A brace each from Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo inspired the Oranje to an emphatic victory that leaves them a point clear at the summit of the group.
The Dutch made a dream start, taking the lead inside five minutes when Brobbey powered home an inviting cross from Gakpo.
The striker doubled the advantage just 12 minutes later, sliding in to convert Denzel Dumfries’ low delivery for his second goal of the night.
Sweden responded positively and thought they had pulled one back through Gustaf Lagerbielke’s header, only for the celebrations to be cut short by the offside flag.
The second half belonged entirely to the Netherlands. Gakpo turned from provider to goalscorer, netting twice in quick succession.
He first converted from close range before producing a trademark strike from the edge of the box to put the game beyond Sweden’s reach.
Substitute Anthony Elanga briefly gave Sweden hope with a well-taken breakaway goal, but the impressive Crysencio Summerville sealed the emphatic victory with a powerful right-footed finish late in the game.
The result sees the Netherlands move to the top of Group F, while Sweden slip to second place ahead of the group’s later fixture between Japan and Tunisia.
With attacking flair and clinical finishing on full display, the Oranje have firmly announced themselves as serious contenders at the FIFA World Cup 2026.