Three-time World Cup runners-up Netherlands booked their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a dominant 4-0 win over Lithuania on Monday, sealing the top spot in Group G. The Dutch completed an unbeaten qualifying campaign with 20 points, three ahead of Poland.
How the Netherlands Clinched It
Tijjani Reijnders opened the scoring in the 16th minute after linking neatly with Frenkie de Jong. The midfielder, restored to the starting XI after being benched against Poland, nearly struck again when his curling effort hit the post.
The Dutch blew the game open after the break, scoring three times in four minutes. Cody Gakpo made it 2-0 from the penalty spot following a VAR-confirmed handball. Moments later, Xavi Simons dribbled through the defence to bury the third, before Donyell Malen’s pace on the counter produced the fourth.
Poland edged Malta 3-2 but could not close the gap as the Netherlands maintained their unbeaten record.
De Jong Eyes World Cup Prep
“We had some really good spells,” De Jong said. “The phase after halftime was especially strong. Now we want to keep improving and reach the World Cup in top condition.” The 2026 edition in Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. will be the Netherlands’ 12th appearance at football’s flagship event.
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