Netherlands beat Tunisia 3-1 to top Group F, set Up Morocco clash in R32

The Netherlands secured top spot in Group F with a 3-1 win over Tunisia at Kansas City Stadium. Ronald Koeman’s side will now face Morocco in the Round of 32 in Monterrey on 29 June.

—Dutch start fast with two goals in 3 minutes—

The Netherlands needed just three minutes to lead. Captain Ellyes Skhiri turned Denzel Dumfries’ cross into his own net while trying to stop Brian Brobbey from getting to it.

It was 2-0 soon after. Virgil van Dijk headed a free-kick back across goal and Brobbey finished from close range for his third goal of the tournament.

Tunisia, already eliminated after heavy losses to Sweden and Japan, had a chance early when Ismael Gharbi side-footed over from a good position. But Hervé Renard’s side spent much of the match on the back foot.

—Tunisia pull one back, Dutch answer instantly—

In a rain-soaked second half, Tunisia got back into it when Hazem Mastouri was left unmarked to head home Hannibal Mejbri’s corner.

The Netherlands replied immediately. Jan Paul van Hecke glanced home Tijjani Reijnders’ delivery to restore the two-goal lead. Skhiri also blocked well to deny Dumfries earlier in the half.

—What’s next—

The win takes the Dutch to Group F top spot and a knockout date with Morocco in Monterrey on June 29. Tunisia exit the tournament after a difficult campaign.

*Key moments*
1. 3’ O.G. Skhiri: Dumfries cross forces Tunisia captain to score at the wrong end.
2. Brobbey 3rd of tournament: Taps in after Van Dijk’s headed knockdown.
3. Van Hecke: Immediate response after Tunisia’s Mastouri header.