World Cup 2026: Netherlands crush Sweden 5-1 as Brobbey and Gakpo score braces

The Netherlands delivered a dominant performance on Saturday, defeating Sweden 5-1 in a World Cup Group F match in Houston, Texas. Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo each scored a brace to lead the Dutch to a crucial victory that puts them on the brink of qualification for the round of 32.

Brobbey, who plays for Sunderland, opened the scoring with two goals in the first 17 minutes. Liverpool's Gakpo added two more within the first nine minutes of the second half, making it 4-0. Sweden pulled one back through Anthony Elanga, but Crysencio Summerville sealed the rout with a fifth goal in the 89th minute.

Sweden, who had thrashed Tunisia 5-1 in their opening match, needed a win to guarantee a spot in the knockout stage. However, Graham Potter's side was overwhelmed by the Dutch attack. The Netherlands, who drew 2-2 with Japan in their first game, now have four points and a goal difference of +4, which should be enough to advance to the last 32 of the expanded 48-team tournament.

This was the first time Sweden conceded five goals in a World Cup match since the 1958 final against Brazil, which they lost 5-2.