The Netherlands are heading to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in type, after smashing Lithuania 4–0 on the Johan Cruijff Enviornment on Monday night time, Softfootball predicted an correct 4-nil trashing within the pre-game evaluation, and actually, the outcome by no means actually felt doubtful.
Ronald Koeman’s males wrapped up qualification with confidence, ending high of Group G with out shedding a single match, with six wins, two attracts, and barely a sweat dropped on this last outing. Earlier than this recreation they have been held 1-1 by Poland after they’d earlier trashed Finland additionally 4-nil.
The opening objective got here early and calmly. Within the sixteenth minute, Tijjani Reijnders slipped by means of the Lithuanian backline and buried a neat end after a pointy, threaded go from Frenkie de Jong.
Lithuania’s goalkeeper, Edvinas Gertmonas, did nearly the whole lot he might to maintain the scoreline respectable, pulling off a few sturdy saves. There was a quick scare when Jurrien Timber limped off simply earlier than halftime, however the Dutch nonetheless went into the break holding a slim 1–0 edge.
Then the second half arrived and Lithuania principally disappeared. After a VAR overview noticed a handball from Edgaras Utkus, Cody Gakpo stepped up and smashed dwelling a penalty within the 56th minute.
Barely two minutes later, Gakpo turned creator, sliding the ball to Xavi Simons, who whipped in an aesthetic end that appeared too easy for such an vital night time. And earlier than Lithuania might even catch their breath, Donyell Malen sliced by means of their defence within the 62nd minute to fireplace in an excellent solo objective. Three objectives in 5 minutes, and the match was over proper there.
By the ultimate whistle, the Dutch stood proudly as Group G winners, forward of Poland, whereas Lithuania ended their marketing campaign with no single win. After the win, the Netherlands uploaded through their official X account that their mission is accomplished and they’re en path to the World Cup.
The publish:
Their qualification locations the Netherlands alongside England, France, Germany, Portugal, Croatia, and Norway as European groups already confirmed for the 2026 World Cup. A powerful assertion from a staff that wishes to be feared once more on the most important stage.
