Netherlands demolished Sweden 5-1 at NRG Stadium in a World Cup rout. Cody Gakpo's two-goal display and Brian Brobbey's early double set the tone for a dominant Dutch performance that left the Swedes helpless.
The Netherlands came into this World Cup fixture looking to make a statement. Sweden arrived hoping to build on their tournament preparations. What unfolded was a one-sided affair that saw the Dutch deliver a masterclass in clinical finishing and attacking prowess.
Brobbey struck within five minutes, giving the Netherlands an ideal start. The forward showed predatory instinct to capitalize on early Dutch pressure. Sweden's defense looked shaky from the opening whistle.
Brobbey doubled the lead just 12 minutes later in the 17th minute. The striker pounced again with ruthless efficiency. Netherlands had already established complete control of the match.
Sweden offered little resistance in the opening stages. Their midfield struggled to gain a foothold in possession. The Swedes faced an uphill battle after just 17 minutes.
The first half belonged entirely to the Netherlands. They controlled play with 52 percent possession and created clear chances consistently. Sweden managed seven shots on target but could not find the breakthrough before halftime.
The second half proved equally one-sided. Gakpo opened his account in the 47th minute immediately after the restart. Netherlands maintained their intensity and refused to ease off.
Gakpo struck again in the 54th minute to make it 4-0. The winger was unstoppable on the day, finishing with a match rating of 9.6. His movement and finishing were simply clinical.
Anthony Elanga pulled one back for Sweden in the 59th minute. The goal offered temporary respite but changed nothing about the match's trajectory. Netherlands remained firmly in control.
Crysencio Summerville added a fifth in the 89th minute to seal the rout. The substitute showed composure to finish off a dominant Dutch display. Sweden's night ended in complete disappointment.
The statistics told the story of Dutch superiority. Netherlands created 2.47 expected goals compared to Sweden's 0.94. The Dutch landed seven shots on target to Sweden's seven total, showing the difference in quality.
Denzel Dumfries provided two assists for the Netherlands. Goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen made six saves to keep the scoreline respectable. The Dutch defense was never truly tested.
This comprehensive victory sends a clear message in the World Cup. Netherlands showed they possess the attacking firepower to compete with any team. Sweden will need significant improvement in their next fixture.
