Netherlands keep knockout hopes alive with 5-1 win over Sweden

HOUSTON: The Netherlands kept their hopes of reaching the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup alive with a convincing 5-1 victory over Sweden in a crucial Group F match.

Brian Brobbey gave the Dutch side a dream start by scoring twice within the opening 17 minutes (5th and 17th minutes), putting the Netherlands firmly in control. Liverpool star Cody Gakpo then added two more goals for the Oranje in the 47th and 54th minutes.

Anthony Elanga scored Sweden’s only goal in the 59th minute, but the Netherlands continued their dominance, with Somerville scoring their fifth goal in the 89th minute.

The win marked a strong comeback for the Netherlands after they were held to a 2-2 draw by Japan in their opening match despite taking the lead twice. Sweden, who had started their campaign with a 5-1 win over Tunisia, suffered the same scoreline defeat in their second game.