Daijiworld Media Network- Helsinki
Helsinki, Jun 11: The Netherlands delivered a commanding performance in the 2026 World Cup European qualifiers, routing Malta 8-0 in Groningen on Tuesday, while Poland’s campaign hit a major roadblock following a 2-1 defeat to Finland in Helsinki.
The Oranje stormed into a 3-0 lead inside 20 minutes, with Memphis Depay bagging a brace – first from the spot in the 9th minute and again with a ferocious strike from the edge of the area. The goals brought Depay's international tally to 50, equalling Dutch legend Robin van Persie as the nation's all-time leading goalscorer.
Captain Virgil van Dijk added a stunning long-range effort, before the Dutch went into overdrive in the second half. Xavi Simons, Donyell Malen (twice), Noa Lang, and Micky van de Ven completed the demolition job, pushing the Netherlands to second in Group G with a perfect start from two games.
Group leaders Finland, however, caused a stir with their gritty win over Poland, who were without talisman Robert Lewandowski. The veteran forward had ruled himself out of international duty under current coach Michal Probierz. Finland capitalised on Poland’s transition, taking the lead through Joel Pohjanpalo’s penalty and extending it via Benjamin Kallman. Although Jakub Kiwior gave Poland hope, the game was paused due to a medical emergency in the stands and resumed after a delay. Despite late pressure, Poland couldn’t salvage a point and remain third in the group.
Elsewhere in the qualifiers:
• Serbia swept past Andorra 3-0, thanks to a clinical hat-trick from Aleksandar Mitrovic, climbing to third in Group K.
• Austria cruised to a 4-0 win over San Marino in Serravalle, with Marko Arnautovic scoring twice early on. They now trail Group H leaders Bosnia and Herzegovina, who have played an extra match.
• Romania secured a 2-0 victory over Cyprus but dropped to third as Austria's superior goal difference pushed them up the standings.
• Latvia and Albania shared spoils in a 1-1 draw in Riga, leaving Group K finely poised.