The Netherlands moved within touching distance of the World Cup knockout stage after producing a dominant 5-1 victory over Sweden on Saturday.
Sweden, who opened their Group F campaign with an impressive 5-1 win over Tunisia, arrived in Houston knowing that victory over the Dutch would secure early qualification from the group.
However, they were overwhelmed by a relentless Netherlands side.
Brian Brobbey struck twice inside the opening 17 minutes to give the Dutch a commanding 2-0 lead, setting the tone for a one-sided contest.
After the break, Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo added two quick goals within the first nine minutes of the second half to extend the advantage to 4-0 and effectively end Sweden’s resistance.
Anthony Elanga managed a consolation goal for the Swedes, but it did little to change the outcome.
Crysencio Summerville rounded off the emphatic win with a late fifth goal in the 89th minute, sealing a statement performance for the Dutch side.
The result leaves the Netherlands, who drew 2-2 with Japan in their opening match, on four points with a strong +4 goal difference—positioning them well for progression in the expanded 48-team tournament.
Sweden, meanwhile, were left to reflect on a heavy defeat, the last time they conceded five goals at a World Cup dating back to the 1958 final loss to Brazil.
Elsewhere in Group E, Germany or Ivory Coast could secure their place in the knockout rounds later on Saturday when they meet in Toronto.
Germany, who thrashed debutants Curacao 7-1 in their opening game, would seal top spot in the group if they defeat Ivory Coast and Ecuador fail to beat Curacao in Kansas City.
A place in the last 32 would mark a significant step for Germany, who have not reached the knockout stage since winning their fourth World Cup title in Brazil in 2014.
Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann stressed the threat posed by Ivory Coast’s physicality and pace, singling out winger Nicolas Pepe as a key danger.
“His speed is one of their biggest strengths, and that’s what they do best,” Nagelsmann told reporters, adding that Pepe “was everywhere” in their previous match.
