Netherlands Thrash Malta 8-0 in World Cup Qualifier

The Netherlands dominated Malta in a World Cup qualifier, winning 8-0 with Memphis Depay scoring twice. Ronald Koeman's side is now just a point behind group leaders after Poland's loss to Finland.

Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman expressed delight after his team's 8-0 thrashing of Malta, saying they “couldn't do any better.” The win, the Netherlands' biggest since an 11-0 victory over San Marino in 2011, boosted their FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign with a maximum six points from two games.

The Netherlands started their World Cup qualifying campaign with a 2-0 win in Finland and continued their strong form against Malta. They took a 3-0 lead within 21 minutes, impressing manager Ronald Koeman.

“You can't do better than we did today. From the first to the last minute, we gave it our all and put the pressure on. And we scored some great goals,” Koeman praised in the post-match press conference.

“It doesn't happen very often anymore that such a big score is achieved. That deserves a big compliment.”

Even with a 7-0 lead, the Netherlands continued to press for an eighth goal, showcasing their relentless energy. Koeman praised his team's performance, saying, “We have more quality than Malta, that's clear. But it only becomes 8-0 if you keep covering ground. And keep up the pressure. That's what we did.”

Memphis Shines

Memphis Depay tied Robin van Persie's record of 50 goals for the Netherlands with two first-half goals. Koeman praised the performance, saying, “It was a great night for him.” Depay was later substituted for Donyell Malen, who scored twice and assisted another in his brief time on the pitch.

Great night in Groningen! 😍#NothingLikeOranje #NEDMLT pic.twitter.com/MyeUMK6zwq

— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) June 10, 2025

Koeman defended his decision to substitute Memphis Depay before he could score his 51st goal. “No, why should he have been left out there? Let him score his 51st goal next time and break the record. Then we'll be playing Poland at home. That way, he'll stay hungry,” Koeman said, hinting at Memphis's upcoming opportunity.

”Besides, Malen certainly didn't do badly as Memphis’ replacement. He made a good impression.”

After Poland's 2-1 loss to Finland, the Netherlands are now just a point behind the group leaders. The Oranje's next match is set for September 4, when they'll host Poland in what Ronald Koeman describes as “perhaps the most important one.” This crucial World Cup qualifying match will kick off at 18:45 UTC at Stadion Feijenoord 'De Kuip' in Rotterdam. Currently, the Netherlands rank third, while Poland hold the top spot in Group G.

Ronald Koeman expressed satisfaction with the Netherlands' perfect start to their World Cup qualifying campaign. “Prior to this qualification, I stated that we are obligated to finish first in the group. We are on track,” he said, highlighting his team's ambitions.