FIFA WC 2026: Gakpo, Brobbey hit double each as Netherlands crush Sweden 5-1
Houston, June 21
The Netherlands produced a ruthless attacking display to overpower Sweden 5-1 and climb to the top of Group F at the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Houston on Sunday. Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo both scored braces as the Dutch turned a highly anticipated European showdown into a one-sided affair, leaving Sweden chasing shadows for much of the contest.
The Oranje made a dream start, taking the lead in the fifth minute when Brobbey arrived to finish a dangerous delivery from Gakpo. The Dutch striker struck again 12 minutes later, sliding home from close range after a low cross from Denzel Dumfries carved open the Swedish defence.
Sweden attempted to fight their way back into the game and enjoyed spells of pressure before the break, but they were unable to find a way past a disciplined Dutch backline.
Any hopes of a Swedish comeback disappeared soon after halftime as Gakpo took centre stage. The Liverpool forward made it 3-0 in the 47th minute with a composed finish before adding his second goal seven minutes later, cutting inside and unleashing a powerful strike to put the Netherlands firmly in control.
Substitute Anthony Elanga briefly lifted Swedish spirits when he raced through to score in the 59th minute, reducing the deficit and offering a glimmer of hope.
However, the Dutch quickly regained command and continued to threaten on the counterattack. Their dominance was finally rewarded again in the closing stages when Crysencio Summerville capped an impressive team performance with an emphatic finish in the 89th minute.
The victory lifts the Netherlands above Sweden into first place in Group F, strengthening their position in the race for the knockout stages. Sweden, meanwhile, drop to second and will need a positive response in their remaining fixtures to keep their qualification hopes firmly on track.
Goals: Netherlands - Brian Brobbey (5', 17'), Cody Gakpo (47', 54'), Crysencio Summerville (89'); Sweden - Anthony Elanga (59').
— IANS
Reader Comments
Nice to see Elanga scoring for Sweden, but overall it was one-way traffic. The Netherlands just dominated from start to finish. Makes me wonder how Asian teams will fare against such European giants in this World Cup.
Watching from Mumbai, and this was pure class from the Dutch. Brobbey's positioning is incredible. But I feel Sweden missed their usual grit—they gave away too many easy chances. Need to step up for the next match.
Gakpo is worth every penny Liverpool paid for him. That second goal was pure magic—cutting inside and smashing it home. 👌 But I think the referee was a bit lenient on some Dutch tackles.
As a neutral fan, this was entertaining. But the Netherlands really need to work on their defense. Sweden had a few good spells, and that Elanga goal showed they can be caught out. Their keeper made some good saves too.
Brobbey is definitely one to watch for the Golden Boot race. Two goals in the first 17 minutes—that's ruthless finishing. India should aim to produce such world-class strikers through the ISL and grassroots programs. 🇮🇳⚽
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