Netherlands boost World Cup 2026 lead with 5-1 victory over Sweden

The Dutch national team defeated Sweden 5-1 in the Group A match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup held in Houston. Goals came from Brian Proby (7′, 18′), Cody Jakabo (48′, 54′), and a late strike by Criscencio Somervil (90′) after Sweden’s lone reply was cancelled by VAR. The win moves the Netherlands to four points at the top of the group, while Sweden remains on three points pending the result of the Tunisia‑Japan fixture.

The victory also extended the Netherlands’ unbeaten run to 14 matches, surpassing Brazil’s former record of 13 set between 1958 and 1966, and marks 18 consecutive group‑stage matches without loss—a streak that began after a defeat to Belgium in 1994. Coach Ronald Koman’s side now positions itself as a strong contender for the 2026 tournament.