xtratime Web Desk

The Netherlands produced a dominant display to crush Sweden 5-1 in a match that many expected to be a closely contested battle. Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo scored two goals each, while Crysencio Summerville added another as the Dutch side overwhelmed their Scandinavian opponents. Anthony Elanga netted Sweden’s lone consolation goal.

Sweden had hoped their powerful attacking unit would be the key to defeating the Dutch, but instead they were taught a lesson by Netherlands striker Brian Brobbey. The Ajax forward delivered a sensational performance, tearing apart the Swedish defense and laying the foundation for a comprehensive victory with two early goals.

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman made a bold decision by leaving Memphis Depay out of the starting lineup and handing Brobbey a place in attack. The move paid off brilliantly. Brobbey struck twice within the opening 17 minutes, using his strength, close control, and clinical finishing to torment Sweden’s defenders.

The Dutch were not only impressive individually but also dominant as a team. Their relentless attacks from both flanks kept Sweden under constant pressure throughout the match. Shortly after halftime, Cody Gakpo scored twice to effectively put the result beyond doubt.

Anthony Elanga briefly gave Sweden hope with a goal, but it proved to be little more than a consolation. Late in the game, Crysencio Summerville capped off an outstanding Dutch performance with a stunning finish to complete the rout.

Sweden entered the match full of confidence after a convincing 5-1 victory over Tunisia in their previous outing, where Viktor Gyökeres and Alexander Isak had starred. However, neither forward could find a way past Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen this time around.

The heavy defeat increases the pressure on Sweden coach Graham Potter ahead of Tuesday’s crucial clash against Japan. Although Sweden created a few attacking opportunities, their defensive frailties were repeatedly exposed by the Netherlands, who ruthlessly punished every mistake.

Despite the setback, Sweden still have an opportunity to recover under the tournament’s current format. For the Netherlands, however, the emphatic victory was about more than just three points—it was a powerful statement of intent. On a night when Brobbey and Gakpo both scored braces, the Dutch demonstrated why they are among the strongest contenders for the title.