A historic performance on the path to group leadership
The Netherlands national team put on a stunning display of football in Groningen, crushing Malta with a historic 8–0 win in the European Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. With a standout performance from Memphis Depay, who equaled the all-time scoring record for his country, and major contributions from Xavi Simons, Van Dijk, Malen, and Noa Lang, the Dutch secured their second consecutive win in Group G, firmly establishing themselves as serious contenders for a spot in the World Cup.
⚽ First Half: The Netherlands dominates and seals the match before halftime
Early pressure and penalty confirmed by VAR
The match began with Netherlands applying pressure from the opening whistle. In the 5th minute, Justin Kluivert was fouled inside the box by Juan Corbalan. After VAR review, the penalty was confirmed. Memphis Depay converted with a strong strike into Bonello’s bottom-right corner: 1–0 Netherlands.
Historic goal from Depay and total control
In the 16th minute, after an assist from Denzel Dumfries, Depay scored again with a central shot, reaching 50 international goals, equaling Robin van Persie’s record.
Just minutes later, in the 20th, captain Virgil van Dijk joined the party. After a flowing move with Frenkie de Jong, the center-back struck from outside the box into the bottom-left corner: 3–0 Netherlands.
Malta tries to respond, but Flekken stands firm
Despite being outplayed, Malta had two attempts on goal through Satariano and Guillaumier, both saved comfortably by Mark Flekken. The Dutch continued to press, with chances missed by Dumfries, Gakpo, and De Vrij before halftime.
🔁 Second Half: Koeman makes changes and the Netherlands turns a rout into a massacre
Substitutions and continued intensity
After the break, Ronald Koeman brought on Noa Lang and Mats Wieffer, injecting fresh energy into the side. In the 61st minute, Xavi Simons scored a beautiful goal after a slick exchange with Depay, curling the ball into the far corner: 4–0 Netherlands.
Malen makes immediate impact
In the 74th minute, substitute Donyell Malen scored the fifth goal after a low cross from Van de Ven. Four minutes later (78′), Malen returned the favor, assisting Noa Lang who fired home with his left foot for the sixth.
Soon after, in the 80th minute, Malen grabbed his second of the night with a composed finish: 7–0 Netherlands.
Van de Ven wraps up in stoppage time
In added time (90+2′), after a blocked shot from Xavi Simons, the ball fell to Micky van de Ven, who struck powerfully to complete the 8–0 Netherlands blowout.
📊 Group G Standings Impact: Netherlands rises with confidence and offensive power
- With this win, Netherlands moves to 6 points from 2 matches, climbing to second place in Group G, level with Poland, but ahead on goal difference.
- Malta remains without a point, with 0 goals scored and 11 conceded in four matches.
🔍 Tactical Analysis: Coordinated Dutch pressure vs. Malta’s toothless defense
Netherlands: offensive variety and tactical balance
Malta: defensive plan collapses under superior talent
🏅 Man of the Match: Memphis Depay – The new king of Dutch goals
In addition to reaching the historic 50-goal milestone, Depay was central to the Dutch attacking scheme. He opened the scoring from the spot and added a second with precision. His chemistry with Simons and Dumfries made the difference.
According to UEFA and statistical platform Flashscore, he was named Man of the Match for his leadership and decisive performance.
🗓️ Upcoming Matches: Key strategic battles in Group G
Netherlands
- Next opponent: Poland
- Date: September 2025
- Venue: Amsterdam
Malta
- Next opponent: Lithuania (away)
- Date: September 2025
🧠 A clear message to Europe, the Netherlands is back
The 8–0 win over Malta was more than just a wide-margin victory it was a statement of power. Koeman’s team showcased a modern, attacking, and effective brand of football, blending rising stars like Xavi Simons with seasoned leaders like Depay and Van Dijk.
For Malta, the result highlights the gap in quality, but also offers a learning experience. For the Netherlands, it’s the momentum needed to tackle upcoming challenges on the road to the 2026 World Cup.
