Netherlands rout Sweden 5-1 to take control of Group F

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved

View the photo slideshow from the match by Darla Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography by clicking here.

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 20, 2026) Netherlands delivered one of the most convincing performances of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Saturday, defeating Sweden 5-1 before a sellout crowd of 68,777 at NRG Stadium in Houston. The victory moved the Dutch to the top of Group F and placed them in a strong position to advance to the knockout stage.

The Dutch struck early and never looked back. Brian Brobbey opened the scoring in the sixth minute after finishing a low cross from Cody Gakpo. Just 11 minutes later, Brobbey doubled the lead, racing onto a cross from Denzel Dumfries and finishing from close range. Sweden struggled to recover from the quick start as the Netherlands controlled the tempo throughout the first half.

The Netherlands extended the lead shortly after halftime when Cody Gakpo found the net in the 51st minute. The Liverpool forward added his second goal just four minutes later, effectively putting the match out of reach at 4-0.

Sweden finally got on the scoreboard in the 59th minute through substitute Anthony Elanga, who briefly gave his side hope of a comeback. However, Dutch substitute Crysencio Summerville capped the scoring late in the match with the Netherlands' fifth goal.

No penalties were awarded in the contest. Dumfries was a standout performer with two assists, while Brobbey's first-half brace set the tone for the dominant victory. The result left Sweden facing a must-win match against Japan, while the Netherlands moved within touching distance of the Round of 32.