Sunday June 21, 2026
Cody Gakpo (front R) of the Netherlands fires on goal during the group F match between the Netherlands and Sweden at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Houston Stadium in Houston, the United States, June 20, 2026. (Xinhua/Li Ming)
The Netherlands surged to a commanding 5-1 win over Sweden on Saturday, a result that sent the Dutch to the summit of Group F after a sharp, clinical display at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
From the outset, the Dutch set the tone. Brian Brobbey struck twice from close range in the 5th and 17th minutes, giving the Netherlands an early grip on the contest and forcing Sweden onto the back foot.
The Oranje then dropped deeper, allowing Sweden to gain the upper hand. Viktor Gyokeres and Yasin Ayari both had promising chances, but neither was able to find the net.
After the break, the Netherlands reasserted control in decisive fashion. Cody Gakpo scored twice inside the first 10 minutes of the second half, stretching the lead to 4-0 and effectively putting the match beyond Sweden’s reach.
Anthony Elanga reduced the deficit for Sweden in the 59th minute, but Crysencio Summerville quickly answered to restore the Dutch four-goal advantage before the final whistle, wrapping up a one-sided 5-1 victory.
The result moved the Netherlands to the top of Group F with four points from two matches.
