AMSTERDAM: The Netherlands confirmed their place in the 2026 World Cup after recording a stylish 4-0 victory over Lithuania in Group G action in Amsterdam, early this morning.
The Oranje squad – three-time runners-up in 1974, 1978 and 2010 – will be making their 12th appearance at the World Cup finals after finishing as group winners, beating Poland who won 3-2 over Malta, and now have to play in a play-off next March to qualify for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
With a goal difference advantage of +13 over Poland before kick-off, the Netherlands could actually qualify even if they lose.
However, Ronald Koeman’s men still entertained 50,000 fans at the Johan Cruyff Arena with a high-intensity game, too fast for Lithuania who were often forced to defend in their own area.
Despite facing a solid opposition defence, the Netherlands finally broke the deadlock in the 15th minute through Tijani Reijnders who finished neatly after a pass from Frenkie De Jong.
The hosts only led 1-0 at half-time despite completely dominating, thanks to the brilliant performance of Lithuanian goalkeeper Edvinas Gertmonas.
However, just before the hour mark, Gertmonas could no longer withstand the pressure when Cody Gakpo doubled the lead to 2-0 via a penalty after a handling offence.
Two minutes later, Xavi Simons kicked in from close range to make it 3-0.
Donnyell Malen completed the big win two minutes later before Koeman made five substitutions.
Luciano Valente made his Oranje debut for the final 10 minutes, greeted by thunderous cheers from the Amsterdam crowd as the 22-year-old Feyenoord midfielder entered the pitch.