Brobbey and Gakpo doubles power Netherlands to crushing win over Sweden

The Netherlands delivered their statement performance of the 2026 World Cup, overwhelming Sweden 5-1 at NRG Stadium in Houston. After a sluggish opener against Japan, the Dutch were ruthless from the outset and never allowed Sweden's vaunted attack to settle.

Blitzed early

Brian Brobbey struck twice in the opening 17 minutes, finishing in the 5th and 17th, to stun the Swedes. The early double set the tone and forced Potter's side to chase a game that was already slipping away.

Gakpo turns on the style

Cody Gakpo took over after the break with goals in the 47th and 54th minutes. Anthony Elanga offered Sweden a brief consolation in the 59th, but Crysencio Summerville rounded off the rout in the 89th minute to make it 5-1.

The result lifted the Netherlands level on points at the top with Japan and left Sweden needing a result on the final matchday. It also showcased a Dutch attack that, on this evidence, can trouble anyone in the knockout rounds.