The Netherlands secured top spot in World Cup Group F after a commanding 3-1 victory over Tunisia in Kansas City . The Dutch side demonstrated their intent from the outset, establishing a two-goal lead within the opening seven minutes of the match.
Ronald Koeman 's team broke the deadlock in just the third minute when Tunisia 's Ellyes Skhiri inadvertently turned a cross into his own net. Moments later, Brian Brobbey doubled the advantage, tapping home a headed knockdown from Virgil van Dijk following a free-kick.
While the Netherlands appeared comfortable, Tunisia briefly threatened a comeback early in the second half. A corner found Hazem Mastouri , who headed the ball into the bottom-left corner, halving the deficit. However, the Dutch response was swift, with Jan Paul van Hecke restoring their two-goal cushion from a corner of his own.
Netherland's Jan Paul van Hecke celebrates scoring their sides third goal (PA)
Tunisia created a few intermittent opportunities thereafter but ultimately failed to impact the scoreline further, exiting the tournament without a point. The Netherlands , meanwhile, comfortably progressed to the last 32.
Dutch coach Ronald Koeman expressed his satisfaction with the result, stating: "I wanted first place in the group, and we finished that way. I think it had to do with the fact that we went 2-0 up very quickly. That can be a problem against a stronger opponent and Morocco are an attacking team."
Tunisia coach Herve Renard offered a candid assessment of his team's performance: "We were not at the level for this World Cup, this is clear, there is no discussion. It's a big tournament with very good teams, especially in this group, it was a very tough group."
Tunisia manager Herve Renard (PA)
In Group F's other final game, Japan and Sweden booked their places in the knockout phase of the World Cup as they drew 1-1 in Dallas .
The point sends Japan through in second place behind the Netherlands with Sweden top of the third-place teams, dealing another blow to Scotland 's hopes of reaching the last 32.
