November 29, (THEWILL) – By defeating Qatar 2-0 to finish first in Group A, the Netherlands breezed into the knockout round and made Qatar the first-ever individual host nation to lose as many as three matches in a single tournament.
For the third consecutive match, Cody Gakpo was on the scorers’ sheet with the PSV attacker, who has been one of the tournament’s breakout stars, once again dazzling at Al Bayt Stadium, setting the Oranje up for victory with a precise goal in the 26th minute.
A second goal from Frenkie de Jong ensured an easy victory to clinch top place in the group even though Senegal overcame Ecuador in the other match of Group A.
Memphis Depay’s hamstring injury likely would not have allowed Gakpo to have played such a significant part thus far, but the two started together on Tuesday and will now look to team up once more in the round of 16 against the Group B runners-up.
Later on Tuesday, as Qatar looks back on a trying first World Cup, the Netherlands will find out who their opponents in the round of 16 will be.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
