Netherlands beat Sweden 5-1, edging closer to the last 32.

The Netherlands secured a place in the World Cup knockout stage with a decisive 5‑1 victory over Sweden on Saturday.

Sweden had entered the match after a 5‑1 win against Tunisia in their opening Group F game, and a win against the Dutch would have guaranteed their progression from the group stage.

However, the Dutch, coached by Graham Potter, dominated the encounter. They opened the scoring just 17 minutes in, with Brian Brobbey of Sunderland netting a brace to give the Netherlands a 2‑0 lead.

In the second half, Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo scored twice within the first nine minutes, pushing the score to 4‑0 and ensuring that Sweden’s only goal, from Anthony Elanga, would be a consolation.

Fifth‑minute hero Crysencio Summerville added a final goal for the Dutch in the 89th minute.

The win leaves the Netherlands, who drew 2‑2 with Japan in their opening match, on four points with a +4 goal difference, a standing that is likely sufficient to secure a spot in the last 32 of the expanded 48‑team tournament.

Sweden last conceded five goals in a World Cup match during the 1958 final against Brazil, when they lost 5‑2.

Later on Saturday, Germany or the Ivory Coast can secure a place in the knockout rounds when they face each other in Group E in Toronto.

Germany opened their campaign with a 7‑1 win over debutants Curaçao and would be confirmed as group winners if they defeat the Ivory Coast and Ecuador fails to beat Curaçao in Kansas City.

Reaching the knockout stage would be a relief for Germany, who have not advanced beyond the group stage since winning their fourth World Cup in Brazil in 2014.

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said his side needed to prepare for the Ivory Coast’s athleticism. “Their speed is one of their biggest strengths and that’s what I think they do best,” he told reporters, highlighting French‑born Ivorian winger Nicolas Pepe. “During the last game, he was everywhere,” Nagelsmann added.

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