World Cup: Netherlands qualify as group winners

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 Netherlands 2 - 0 Qatar

How far can Netherlands go?

In-form Cody Gakpo scored again as the Netherlands finished top of Group A, ending Qatar's involvement at their home World Cup with a third consecutive defeat.

Qatar's dismal showing means they became the first host nation to exit the tournament with three group-stage losses, finishing bottom with no points. PSV Eindhoven winger Gakpo has now scored the opening goal in all three of the Netherlands' group games, driving forward and rasping a finish into the bottom corner on this occasion.

Highlights from BBC Sport - YouTube

Qatar looked to hit back immediately but Ismaeel Mohammad's shot on the stretch from outside the area was straight at Andries Noppert. However, Louis van Gaal's men scored at the start of the second half to quash any Qatari hopes of a comeback as Frenkie de Jong poked into an open net after Memphis Depay's shot was saved. The Dutch could have won by more, as Steven Berghuis had a goal ruled out and also hit the crossbar.

The Dutch have a great spine

Three-time finalists the Netherlands watched on from home four years ago but are making up for lost time by reminding people of their qualities. The spine running through their side is a formidable one, marshalled at the back by Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk - their captain - pass master De Jong in the centre of the park and cool finisher Gakpo up top. The 23-year-old PSV player's stock continues to rise after finishing off a team move from Davy Klaassen's lay-off to become the first Dutch player to net in his first three World Cup games.

A disaster of a tournament on the pitch for the hosts

Qatar had actually started the brighter, as captain Hassan Al-Haydos' long-range strike was gathered by Noppert, while Pedro Miguel volleyed over from a corner. As well as three consecutive defeats in their first World Cup, they also conceded seven goals, the most by a host nation in the group stages.

More news from the network 

Super Reds Super News - United Icons: Ruud van Nistelrooy (superredssupernews.blogspot.com)

Super News 161 - Where to go for lunch episode 3: Glasgow (supernews161.blogspot.com) 

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