New Delhi: The Netherlands, a nation yet to lift the World Cup, made a resounding statement in their World Cup opener against Sweden, winning 5-1 in a sensational display of power and poise.
The Dutch, led by talented players like Cody Gakpo and Brian Brobbey, swarmed all over the Swedish defence, crushing them with their well-drilled team play.
Brobbey and Gakpo scored twice each, while young forward Crysencio Summerville sealed the win with a late goal after Sweden's Anthony Elanga had briefly given them hope.
The Dutch were in a hurry, leading 2-0 by the 17th minute, and their marauding wingers left the Swedes in disarray.
The match was only five minutes old when Sweden failed to deal with midfield pressure and lost possession, allowing Gakpo to score the opening goal.
The Dutch controlled the game after that, with Gakpo scoring again in the second half and Summerville sealing the win with a late goal.
The Dutch are now in the mood to inflict serious damage, and the tournament has been warned.
