In a display of dominant football, the Netherlands showcased their attacking prowess against Sweden, leaving no doubt about their capabilities. Brian Brobbey, a key player introduced by Ronald Koeman, quickly made an impact by netting two goals within the first 17 minutes, establishing himself as a formidable force and easing the pressure on his manager.
The collective effort of the Netherlands was equally impressive, as they exploited Sweden’s weaknesses, particularly on the flanks. Cody Gakpo added two goals shortly after halftime, solidifying the victory. Although Anthony Elanga briefly ignited hope for Sweden, a late goal from Crysencio Summerville sealed a 5-1 rout, raising questions about Sweden’s performance.
Viktor Gyökeres and Alexander Isak, who had previously excelled in a 5-1 win against Tunisia, found the going tough against Bart Verbruggen in this match. This significant defeat heightens the stakes for Graham Potter’s side ahead of their upcoming clash with Japan, raising concerns about their ability to recover from such a setback.
Brobbey’s eagerness to engage with Isak Hien, a core defender in Sweden’s lineup, was evident from the outset. This aggressive approach paid off; in the fifth minute, Brobbey skillfully received a chest-high pass and set up Tijjani Reijnders, who then switched play to Gakpo. Gakpo’s precise cross was met by Brobbey, who was quick to convert, delivering a harsh wake-up call for Sweden.
Almost immediately, Gyökeres attempted to bring some positivity back to the Swedish side, forcing a save from Verbruggen. However, the Netherlands displayed overwhelming strength, speed, and tactical control throughout the match. Their supporters, who had paraded to the stadium from Rice University, created an electrifying atmosphere, contrasting with the subdued presence of Sweden’s fans.
Another tussle with Hien once again favored Brobbey, but Donyell Malen, who was repositioned to support Brobbey, found himself marked tightly. A clever pass from Denzel Dumfries was deflected away from Gakpo by Alexander Bernhardsson, and Reijnders, taking advantage of Sweden’s struggles, surged forward but missed the target.
The momentum shifted when Reijnders’ shot caused the ball to burst. Soon after, Brobbey struck again, reacting swiftly to a precise right-sided ball from Dumfries. Sweden’s passive defense allowed the Netherlands to maintain easy possession in their attacking zone.
Despite a hydration break called in the air-conditioned stadium, Koeman’s players remained unyielding. The break proved beneficial for Potter, who adjusted his tactics, switching to a back four, and Sweden appeared revitalized, realizing they had let the match slip away.
Gyökeres capitalized on the adjustment, creating a clear opportunity for Yasin Ayari and forcing Verbruggen into two saves before halftime. Ayari’s efforts culminated in a near miss, and a header from Gustaf Lagerbielke was ruled offside, adding to the frustration for Sweden, who had improved but lacked the necessary results.
In the second half, Koeman introduced Summerville for Malen, and within moments, he dazzled down the right flank, setting up Dumfries for another opportunity. Dumfries delivered a cross that Gakpo converted effortlessly, putting the Netherlands further ahead.
With the scoring continuing, Isak’s careless loss of possession allowed the Netherlands to counterattack with ease, leading to Gakpo’s stunning fourth goal from 20 yards out. Sweden now faced a dire situation, having used up their chances from their earlier victory over Tunisia. Potter’s triple substitution brought Elanga into the game, who quickly made an impact by scoring, igniting a flicker of hope for Sweden.
Despite Elanga’s threat and a dynamic performance, it was Summerville who ultimately showcased his skill, finishing decisively to delight the Dutch supporters once again.
