The Netherlands beat Sweden 5-1 at the Houston Stadium (NRG Stadium) and assumed the lead in Group F after the second day of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Goals from Brian Brobbey (2), Cody Gakpo (2) and Crysencio Summerville sealed a resounding victory for the Dutch, who dominated most of the match.
The match started with intensity. At 5 minutes, Brian Brobbey opened the scoring for the Netherlands after a play down the left wing. Twelve minutes later, the same striker extended the lead with a precise shot, which left the Swedes in a difficult situation from the start.
In the second half, the Netherlands maintained control of the game. Cody Gakpo, one of the figures of the match, scored the third goal at minute 47 and the fourth at minute 54, by taking advantage of the spaces in the Swedish defense. Sweden reacted with a discount from Anthony Elanga in the 59th minute, but failed to reduce the difference.
Crysencio Summerville, who came on as a substitute, closed the win in the 89th minute with a tight shot that left the Swedish goalkeeper with no options. Referee Michael Oliver added five minutes of replacement, although the result was already defined.
Dutch dominion
The Netherlands came into the match after drawing 2-2 with Japan in their debut. The victory allows them to add four points and place themselves in first place in Group F on goal difference. Sweden, which had beaten Tunisia 5-1 on the first day, suffered its first defeat and was left with three points.
The match was characterized by Dutch dominance in possession and opportunity generation, especially through quick transitions and wing attacks. The Swedish defense had difficulty containing Brobbey and Gakpo for much of the game.
With this result, the Netherlands is well positioned to face the third round of the group, while Sweden will have to react in its next match to keep alive its aspirations to qualify for the round of 16.