The Netherlands beat Tunisia and qualified for the 2026 World Cup play-offs as group winners
The Netherlands national team secured a victory over Tunisia in their third Group F match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, USA, ended 3–1 in favour of the Dutch.
Ronald Koeman’s side took the lead right at the start of the match. In the 3rd minute, the scoring was opened by an own goal from Tunisian midfielder Elies Schiri.
Just four minutes later, the Dutch doubled their lead. Brian Brobbey scored following a free-kick and a header from Virgil van Dijk.
Early in the second half, Tunisia pulled one back. In the 54th minute, Hazem Mastouri headed the ball into the far corner following a cross from Hannibal Mejbri from a corner.
However, the suspense did not last long. As early as the 62nd minute, the Netherlands restored their two-goal lead. Following a corner taken by Tijani Reinders, Jan Paul van Hecke found the far corner with a precise strike.
In the other Group F match, Japan and Sweden drew 1–1.
At the end of the group stage, the Netherlands had accumulated 7 points and finished top of Group F, securing their place in the play-offs. Japan finished second with 5 points and also progressed to the round of 32.
Sweden, with 4 points, qualified for the play-offs as one of the best third-placed teams. Tunisia, with zero points, were eliminated from the tournament.
The 2026 World Cup is being held in the USA, Mexico and Canada and will conclude on 19 July. For the first time, 48 teams are taking part in the tournament. The top two teams from each group, as well as the eight best third-placed teams, advance to the knockout stages.
