The Netherlands, known as the "Orange Army," defeated Malta 4-0 in the seventh round of European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, thanks to a brace from Gakpo, goals from Reinders and Depay. Coach Ronald Koeman expressed his belief that his team could have performed better in some areas and expressed his hope that the Netherlands would qualify for the World Cup as the group leader.

Gravenberch was tripped in the 10th minute while trying to break through the defense, and Weghorst volleyed in the goal, but the referee ruled out the goal due to a foul by a Maltese player. However, the Netherlands were awarded a penalty kick, which Gakpo then converted to give the Netherlands a 1-0 lead.

Early in the second half, Weghorst was brought down by an opposing player, earning the Netherlands another penalty. Gakpo then converted the penalty kick, extending the Netherlands' lead over Malta to 2-0. In the 57th minute, Gakpo secured possession, then passed the ball diagonally to Reinders, who fired home a low shot to extend the Netherlands' lead to 3-0.

In the second-half stoppage time, Dumfries intercepted the ball and passed it to Depay, who then slotted home to make it 4-0. The Netherlands ultimately defeated Malta 4-0 away. With their second consecutive victory, the Netherlands currently holds first place in Group G with 13 points.

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman said: "We won the game 4-0, which is of course a good thing. Although I am not frustrated, we could have done better in some aspects. We performed well in the early stages of the game, although we gave Malta a chance in the third minute. As for whether the task was completed? For the most part, it was."

In addition, the Netherlands will host Finland in the next round of World Cup qualifiers. Koeman continued, "We must win the home game, but we also hope to win the other games, and we have the responsibility to advance with the first place result."

"As for whether I am satisfied or not, the game is not over yet. I will be satisfied only when we can secure the first place result, and we will not start celebrating."

In addition, Liverpool winger Gakpo, who won the game for the Netherlands with a penalty kick, said, "I was able to take the penalty kick because Depay was not on the court at the time. In fact, we did not have a clear rule on who would take the penalty kick. Weghorst and I decided to take it after discussing it."

"I didn't take penalties at Liverpool but they usually went well. I only missed once in my career and that was against Copenhagen in PSV Eindhoven.