Image Credits: Imago Images
The Netherlands wrapped up top spot in Group F with a 3-1 win over Tunisia in the World Cup, and it was largely a night of control rather than chaos.
Ronald Koeman’s side were two goals up inside seven minutes, settled the contest for long stretches, and showed enough attacking punch to head into the knockout rounds.
An early Tunisia chance was a reminder that this was not quite the procession the scoreline might suggest, but once Ellyes Skhiri turned the ball into his own net and Brian Brobbey quickly doubled the lead, the Dutch had a firm grip on the match.
Tunisia did make things slightly uncomfortable when Hazem Mastouri headed home early in the second half, yet the response was immediate enough, with Jan Paul van Hecke restoring the two-goal cushion just after the hour.
Tijjani Reijnders also struck the bar as the Oranje looked capable of adding more.
On the night, the Liverpool players had satisfactory performances overall.
SoccerNews.NL gave Virgil van Dijk a 7/10 and wrote:
“The captain of the Dutch team provided the assist on Brian Brobbey’s 0-2 goal, by heading a cross well in front. Furthermore, not tested at all.”
Ryan Gravenberch got a 6.5/10 and suggested he did not perform as well as his midfield partners:
“Compared to partners De Jong and Reijnders, he got more on the ball towards the Tunisian penalty area, but didn’t do much with it this time. A nice game from Gravenberch, but no more than that. The biggest problem with all three players was that Tunisia’s transition to counters was not in order.”
Finally, they were quite harsh on Cody Gakpo and claimed he was “invisible” with a 6/10 rating especially after his performance vs Sweden.
“Normally an important talisman for the Dutch team, but against Tunisia he was quite invisible. Especially for his doing, in other words. After two goals against Sweden, it was a bit disappointing this time.
By finishing first in Group F, they have set up a round of 32 meeting with Morocco, who finished second in Group C. That last-32 clash is scheduled for Tuesday, June 30.