Netherlands beat USA to seal World Cup quarter-final spot

The Netherlands are through into the quarter-finals at the 2022 World Cup after a 3-1 win over the United States at Khalifa International Stadium.

Action: The USA dominated the early period of the match, with Christian Pulisic's shot was stopped by a fantastic save from Andries Noppert with his foot.

But the Netherlands, literally in their first attack broke the deadlock. Memphis Depay finished a well-worked build-up by sweeping home from Denzel Dumfries' cutback.

From that point onwards, Louis Van Gaal's men took control of the game and managed to double their lead on stroke of half-time. 

Dumfries again sprinted down the right flank before delivering a superb ball into Daley Blind, who calmly fired a first-time right-footed strike past Matt Turner.

The Dutch kept controlling in the second period and as it was going towards the end as an easy win for the Europeans, the US halved their deficit with 14 minutes left to play with a weird goal as substitute Haji Wright flicked in an accidental looping goal.

The American hopes were ruined shortly after as Blind turned provider with a great cross which was met by Dumfries, who popped up at the far post and volleyed home to seal the win for the Oranje.

The Dutch dream remains alive as they move into the quarters - their fifth time in their last six World Cups - and will now turn their attentions to facing the winner of Argentina vs Australia on Friday December 9.

Man of the match: Denzel Dumfries. A performance to remember for the right wing-back. Two assists and a goal in a knock-out game in the World Cup is rare achievement. He is one of three players to be directly involved in 3+ goals in a single World Cup match for the Netherlands, after Rob Rensenbrink (twice in 1978) and Johan Cruijff (in 1974).

xG: Netherlands (1.85) 3-1 (1.89) USA

Stat of the Day: Memphis Depay scored his 43rd international goal for the Netherlands, making him the second player with most goals for the Netherlands, only behind Robin van Persie (50).

💪 THE MIGHTY DELTA 🌎🏆 EDITION!

Packed with expertise from around the globe, @playmaker_EN and @thegraphicbomb are delighted to share the FREE digital version of our World Cup fanzine!

🙏 Thanks to all of those involved; may the best team prevail!

🗞 https://t.co/pLWoz7VKu5 pic.twitter.com/g7JBxSe561

— playmakerstats (@playmaker_EN) November 16, 2022