Baku: The Netherlands overpowered Tunisia 3-1 in their final Group F match on Thursday at Kansas City Stadium in the US to secure a place in the next round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Tunisia created an early chance, but the Dutch quickly responded, forcing an own goal by Ellyes Skhiri as he failed to clear a low cross in the third minute. The Netherlands then doubled their lead in the seventh minute with a short-range strike by Brian Brobbey.
Throughout the first half, the Dutch pressed for a third goal, but Tunisia’s defense held strong, clearing balls to thwart the continued attacks. As the second half began, Tunisia rallied and managed to score in the 54th minute with a header from Hazem Mastouri, giving them a temporary boost.
Despite Tunisia’s increased confidence and probing attacks, Jan Paul van Hecke restored the Netherlands’ two-goal lead in the 62nd minute with his first international goal. The Dutch have maintained an unbeaten streak in World Cup match
es since their loss to Spain in the 2010 final, recording nine wins and five draws in 14 games.
The Netherlands finished at the top of Group F, advancing to the knockout stage, while Tunisia finished last, marking their exit from the tournament.