Brobbey, Gakpo score braces as Netherlands thrash Sweden 5-1

By Tosin Omojola

Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo scored two goals apiece as the Netherlands powered to a 5-1 victory over Sweden, putting themselves on the brink of qualification for the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup.

Brobbey was a surprise inclusion in Ronald Koeman’s starting lineup, replacing Crysencio Summerville, who had impressed in the 2-2 draw against Japan. The striker quickly repaid his manager’s faith with an influential display.

The Dutch took the lead after just five minutes through a flowing move that started with goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. Brobbey controlled a long pass, fed Gakpo on the left flank, and then finished the return cross to make it 1-0.

Brobbey doubled the advantage 12 minutes later, getting goalside of Sweden defender Isak Hien before stabbing home Denzel Dumfries’ low delivery. Sweden thought they had pulled one back before halftime through Gustaf Lagerbielke, but the goal was ruled out for offside.

Any hopes of a Swedish comeback were dashed early in the second half when Gakpo tapped in at the back post from another dangerous Dumfries cross. The Liverpool forward struck again in the 54th minute after being set up by substitute Summerville, drilling a low shot past Kristoffer Nordfeldt.

Gakpo’s second goal was also a landmark moment for the tournament, becoming the 100th goal scored at the World Cup. The century mark was reached in just 33 matches, the fastest since the 1958 edition.

Sweden eventually found a consolation goal when substitute Anthony Elanga raced onto a through ball and lifted his effort over Verbruggen. However, the Netherlands remained firmly in control throughout the contest.

Summerville capped an impressive cameo from the bench by scoring late on to complete the rout. The victory sends the Netherlands to the top of Group F with four points, while Sweden will likely need a positive result against Japan in their final group match to keep their knockout hopes alive.