Netherlands Thrash Malta 4-0 in World Cup Qualifier
The Netherlands national team secured a convincing 4-0 victory over Malta in a World Cup qualifier at the Euroborg stadium in Groningen on Sunday.
According to a report by NOS, the Dutch team dominated the match from the start, with Memphis Depay scoring his 50th international goal to equalize with Robin van Persie as the country’s all-time leading scorer.
The match began with a chance for Justin Kluivert, who failed to score after a low cross from Xavi Simons. However, Depay did not miss when he scored from the penalty spot in the 9th minute, giving the Netherlands a 1-0 lead.
The Dutch team continued to press, and Depay scored again in the 16th minute to make it 2-0. Virgil van Dijk added a third goal in the 50th minute, before Depay scored his second goal of the match to seal a 4-0 victory.
The win marks the 50th international match for Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman, who has now taken charge of 50 games for the Dutch national team.
Depay Equals Van Persie as Top Scorer
Depay’s two goals in the match took his tally to 50 international goals, equaling the record set by Robin van Persie. The 31-year-old striker, who plays for Corinthians, has now moved level with Van Persie as the Netherlands’ all-time leading scorer.
When asked about the prospect of becoming the top scorer, Depay said, "It would happen, but I didn’t think it would happen so quickly." He added that he was not focused on the record, but was happy to have achieved it.
Netherlands Coach Koeman Hails Depay’s Performance
Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman praised Depay’s performance, saying that he had been instrumental in the team’s victory. Koeman also revealed that he had made several changes to the team, including resting players with yellow cards to avoid suspensions for the upcoming matches against Poland.
"We want to be fresh for 90 minutes, so we will make some changes," Koeman said. "It’s not the same team as against Finland, but we are confident that we can get a good result."
Malta’s Bonello Recalls Traumatic Loss to Spain
Malta goalkeeper Henry Bonello, who was in goal for the 12-1 loss to Spain in 1983, was not available for an interview, but Netherlands coach Koeman acknowledged the traumatic loss. "I’m not sure if I should say anything about that," Koeman said.
The Netherlands will next face Poland in a World Cup qualifier, and Koeman emphasized the importance of the match. "We need to be careful, as Poland is a tough opponent," he said.
Netherlands Team News
The Netherlands team that took to the field against Malta included goalkeeper Mark Flekken, defenders Stefan de Vrij, Virgil van Dijk, and Micky van de Ven, and midfielders Frenkie de Jong, Justin Kluivert, and Xavi Simons.
The team made several changes from the side that faced Finland, with Kluivert, Simons, and Depay starting.
NOS Provides Live Coverage of the Match
NOS provided live coverage of the match, including a livestream and radio commentary. The match was also broadcast on NPO3 and NPO 1 Extra.
The Netherlands’ next match is against Poland, and fans can expect another exciting encounter.
