FIFA World Cup 2026 – Group F Result
Netherlands 5-1 Sweden
Houston, USA: The Netherlands moved a step closer to the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage after a commanding 5-1 victory over Sweden in their Group F clash on Saturday.
Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo each scored twice as Ronald Koeman’s side produced one of their most convincing performances of the tournament to move top of the group.
The Dutch made a flying start and took the lead after just five minutes when Brobbey converted a cross from Gakpo.
Brobbey doubled the advantage in the 17th minute, finishing off a low delivery from Denzel Dumfries to put Sweden under early pressure.
The Netherlands maintained control throughout the first half and went into the break with a comfortable 2-0 lead.
The second half started in similar fashion, with Gakpo extending the lead just two minutes after the restart.
The Liverpool forward grabbed his second goal of the afternoon in the 54th minute after being picked out by substitute Crysencio Summerville.
Sweden briefly reduced the deficit through Anthony Elanga in the 59th minute, but the Dutch remained firmly in control.
Summerville then capped off an impressive cameo appearance by scoring the fifth goal in the 89th minute to complete the rout.
The victory lifts the Netherlands to the summit of Group F and places them in a strong position to secure qualification for the Round of 32 heading into the final round of group matches.
Brobbey’s first-half brace laid the foundation for the victory, while Gakpo continued his excellent tournament form with two goals and an assist.
Dumfries also played a key role, providing two assists as the Dutch attack repeatedly exposed Sweden’s defence.
For Sweden, the heavy defeat leaves them under pressure ahead of their final group fixture against Japan, a match they must navigate successfully to keep their knockout hopes alive.
The Netherlands will now turn their attention to a meeting with Tunisia, knowing that another positive result could officially secure their place in the next round.
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