The Netherlands secured a 2-1 victory over Tunisia in their Group G match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, played at the Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakrah, Qatar. Goals from Memphis Depay and Denzel Dumfries gave the Dutch the win, while Tunisia's Wahbi Khazri scored a consolation goal from a penalty.
Key Moments
The Netherlands dominated possession throughout the first half, with Depay opening the scoring in the 32nd minute after a precise pass from Frenkie de Jong. Dumfries doubled the lead just before halftime, heading in a cross from Denzel Dumfries in the 45th minute. Tunisia struggled to create chances but were awarded a penalty in the 67th minute when Matthijs de Ligt handled the ball in the box. Khazri converted the spot-kick to make it 2-1.
Team Lineups
Netherlands started with a 4-3-3 formation: goalkeeper Justin Bijlow; defenders Denzel Dumfries, Matthijs de Ligt, Virgil van Dijk, Daley Blind; midfielders Frenkie de Jong, Marten de Roon, Georginio Wijnaldum; forwards Memphis Depay, Donyell Malen, and Steven Berghuis. Tunisia fielded a 4-2-3-1: goalkeeper Mouez Hassen; defenders Wajdi Kechrida, Bilel Ifa, Yassine Meriah, Ali Abdi; midfielders Ellyes Skhiri, Aissa Laidouni; attacking midfielders Naim Sliti, Wahbi Khazri, Anis Ben Slimane; striker Seifeddine Jaziri.
Match Statistics
The Netherlands had 58% possession and 12 shots on goal, with 5 on target. Tunisia managed 42% possession and 8 shots, with 3 on target. The Dutch completed 89% of their passes, while Tunisia completed 82%. There were 16 fouls committed by Tunisia and 9 by the Netherlands.
Impact on Group Standings
The win puts the Netherlands level on points with group leaders Ecuador, who also have 4 points after two matches. Tunisia remain bottom of the group with 1 point after a draw in their opening match. The Netherlands will face Ecuador in their final group game, while Tunisia take on Qatar.
Post-Match Reactions
Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal said, "We played well in the first half and created good chances. In the second half, we controlled the game after their goal. We are happy with the three points." Tunisia coach Jalel Kadri commented, "We gave everything but made mistakes that cost us. We still have a chance to qualify if we win our last match."
