Key Takeaways:
- The Netherlands secured a 4:0 away victory over Malta in Ta’ Qali during their World Cup Group “G” qualifier
- Cody Gakpo scored two penalties, in the 12th and 49th minutes, while further goals came from Tijjani Reijnders and Memphis Depay
- With this result, the Netherlands climbed to the top of the group on 13 points, while Malta remained on just 2 points
Match Analysis
The Netherlands produced a commanding display as they routed Malta 4:0 in their World Cup qualifying fixture in Ta’ Qali. The visitors established control early and were ruthless in capitalising on their chances, with two penalties converted by Cody Gakpo setting the tone for a dominant performance. The result sees the Netherlands take sole leadership of Group “G”.
Man of the Match Cody Gakpo scores twice, as the Netherlands win vs. Malta 🇲🇹 pic.twitter.com/Qt9AUmcufO
— 433 (@433) October 9, 2025
Key Moments
The breakthrough came in the 12th minute when Ryan Gravenberch drew a foul from Kurt Shaw within the Maltese penalty area. Cody Gakpo stepped up confidently to convert from the spot, putting the Netherlands ahead. After the interval, another penalty was awarded, this time due to Enrico Pepe’s foul on Wout Weghorst. Gakpo again took responsibility and doubled the advantage in the 49th minute.
The lead was further increased in the 57th minute. Cody Gakpo took full advantage of an error in Malta’s build-up from the back, dispossessing the hosts and setting up Tijjani Reijnders to score into an unguarded net. The scoring was rounded off deep into stoppage time, as Memphis Depay found the net with a header, finishing off a delivery from Denzel Dumfries to seal a comprehensive 4:0 win.
Group “G” Table Impact
This emphatic result propels the Netherlands to the summit of Group “G” with 13 points. Malta, meanwhile, remain rooted to the bottom of the standings, having collected just 2 points from their qualifying campaign thus far.
