Image Credits: Imago Images
The Netherlands stamped their authority on their World Cup qualifying campaign with a comprehensive 4-0 dismantling of Lithuania in Amsterdam, officially booking their passage to the 2026 finals in North America.
Ronald Koeman’s side delivered a performance brimming with attacking intent and clinical finishing to cap off their Group G qualification in style.
Lithuania offered little resistance as the Dutch dominated from the outset at the Johan Cruyff Arena.
Tijjani Reijnders broke the deadlock with a sharp finish in the 16th minute after receiving Frenkie de Jong’s incisive through ball, with the midfielder nearly adding a second minutes later when his audacious outside-the-boot effort struck the post.
The hosts’ dominance bore emphatic fruit after the restart, when three goals in four minutes put the contest beyond doubt.
Cody Gakpo coolly converted a penalty in the 58th minute after VAR spotted a handball, before Xavi Simons—receiving Gakpo’s low cross—curled a sublime finish into the top corner two minutes later.
Donyell Malen completed the onslaught with a powerful counterattack finish
This victory caps an unbeaten qualifying campaign, with the Dutch finishing three points clear of Poland atop Group G to secure their 12th World Cup appearance.
News outlet Ons Oranje gave the Liverpool man a 7.6/10 for his showing and wrote:
“A goal and assist for the winger who was always dangerous on the left wing.”
Dutch newspaper AD gave Cody Gakpo a 7.5/10 for his efforts and explained:
“Gakpo continued the line of this qualifying series, by continuously threatening and also guaranteeing returns. After fifteen minutes, he had already made two attempts at goal.”
“One of them could have been included. From eleven meters, he still got his fourth goal in the qualifying stage.”
“Two minutes later, his fourth assist followed.”
However, they did explain that his defensive work could have been better:
“Another point of improvement: less gambling when co-defending.”
“Against a top country, such a lax aerial duel will be mercilessly punished next summer in Mexico, America or Canada.”
Virgil van Dijk played 90 minutes while Ryan Gravenberch was an unused substitute.
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.