Netherlands thrash Sweden 5-1 to move top of Group F

Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo score twice each as the Dutch secure a commanding victory in their second group-stage match.

World Cup contenders Netherlands moved to the top of Group F after a dominant 5-1 victory over Sweden, with Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo each scoring twice in an impressive attacking display.

Coach Ronald Koeman surprised many by selecting Brian Brobbey ahead of Crysencio Summerville. The decision paid off quickly as Brobbey struck twice within the opening 17 minutes.

The striker opened the scoring after connecting with a low cross from Cody Gakpo in the fifth minute. He doubled the lead soon afterwards when he turned in another low delivery, this time from Denzel Dumfries.

Sweden improved after the cooling break and thought they had reduced the deficit before half-time. However, Gustaf Lagerbielke’s header was ruled out for offside following a free-kick from Benjamin Nygren.

The Dutch side tightened its grip on the match immediately after the restart. Gakpo scored the third goal after a dangerous cross from Crysencio Summerville created confusion inside the Swedish penalty area.

Eight minutes later, Gakpo struck again. Netherlands launched a rapid counterattack after winning possession and the Liverpool forward finished confidently to make it 4-0.

Anthony Elanga pulled a goal back for Sweden just before the hour mark. He latched onto a pass from Alexander Isak and calmly finished past goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.

Despite the setback, Netherlands remained in complete control. Substitute Crysencio Summerville capped the performance with a fifth goal in stoppage time, firing home from the edge of the penalty area.

The result lifts the Netherlands national football team to the top of Group F and strengthens their hopes of advancing deep into the tournament. Sweden now face increased pressure in their remaining group-stage fixtures.