Netherlands thrash Sweden 5-1 at World Cup with Brobbey and Gakpo goals

The Netherlands secured a commanding 5-1 victory over Sweden in their second group-stage match at the FIFA World Cup in Houston. Ronald Koeman’s side dominated the contest, with Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo leading the attacking charge. Brian Brobbey received an 8.5 rating after scoring twice within the opening 18 minutes. His first goal came after 4 minutes and 58 seconds, finishing a cross from Cody Gakpo. Brobbey doubled the lead shortly after, deflecting a Dumfries cross into the net. The Ajax striker’s performance earned him the highest individual rating in the match. Cody Gakpo scored twice and was rated 8 by VoetbalPrimeur. His first came from a tight angle after a quick transition, while the second was a composed finish following a Dumfries cross. Gakpo’s impact contrasted with his earlier showing against Japan, where his contributions were less pronounced. Denzel Dumfries provided two assists and was rated 7.5. The right-back drove forward repeatedly, delivering dangerous crosses and showing his trademark energy. However, his defensive awareness remained a talking point, as he was bypassed by Anthony Elanga before Sweden’s goal. Teun Koopmeiners, Guus Til, Memphis Depay and Noa Lang all played too briefly for individual ratings. Ronald Koeman’s decision to start Summerville on the bench raised eyebrows, though the winger’s introduction shifted momentum in Oranje’s favor. Bart Verbruggen earned a 7 for his goalkeeping. He made three saves from Viktor Gyökeres in the first half and tipped a Yasin Ayari effort onto the post. A rare error on a free kick was saved by the offside trap, while he also denied Isak late on.

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Ryan Gravenberch starred with a 7.5 rating. The Liverpool midfielder controlled possession effortlessly, shielding the ball and dictating play. His influence was subtle but decisive, particularly in helping create Malen’s early chance. Frenkie de Jong managed a 7 despite limited direct impact. The Barcelona midfielder exerted pressure and recovered possession effectively, enabling Malen’s first-half opportunity. His positional discipline and pressing were key to Oranje’s control. Jan Paul van Hecke received 6.5. The defender endured a shaky spell in the first half, losing possession twice during a period of vulnerability. His impending £60 million move to Tottenham Hotspur added context to his performance. Virgil van Dijk rated 6. He was not directly culpable for Sweden’s goal but faced criticism for failing to intervene sooner during transitions. As captain, his leadership in organizing the defense came under scrutiny.

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Micky van de Ven managed just 5.5. The Tottenham defender was exposed by Elanga twice—once in build-up and again when the Swede dribbled past him. His positioning and recovery were repeatedly tested. Tijjani Reijnders scored 6. He struggled to impose himself and reacted slowly to challenges. A turnover from his possession led directly to Sweden’s goal, compounding a below-par display in midfield. Ronald Koeman defended his tactical choices after the match. “The decision to leave Summerville on the bench raised eyebrows, but Brobbey’s introduction changed the game,” Koeman said. “We lost control briefly, but a 5-1 win at a World Cup is a resounding result.”