Ethiopian soccer player celebrating a goal on the field during a match, wearing a blue jersey with the number 4, with teammates and opponents visible in the background. — https://www.reuters.com/resizer/v2/GY5MIDRHPVLS5HOVQLI2KZY5YY.jpg?auth=d226043aaefc8d72327c52f1862b4e0ba946d30dbe82d59b9bb4bab829837667&width=1920&quality=80

Netherlands close in on World Cup spot

15. 11. 2025

1 minute read

Poland strike first in Warsaw

Poland made the perfect start in front of their home fans. Robert Lewandowski slid a clever pass into the path of Jakub Kaminski, who finished calmly through the legs of Bart Verbruggen to put the hosts 1–0 up. With a play-off place already guaranteed, Poland pushed for an upset that would have kept their automatic qualification hopes alive.

Depay brings the Dutch level

The Netherlands responded after the break. Donyell Malen’s header forced a strong save, but Memphis Depay reacted fastest and smashed in the rebound. The 31-year-old added his eighth goal of the qualifiers, a tally beaten only by Erling Haaland. His goal settled the Dutch and shifted control of the match back to Ronald Koeman’s side.

Qualification all but secured

The draw keeps the Netherlands three points clear of Poland with a far better goal difference — +13 in their favour. To miss out, they would have to lose at home to Lithuania on Monday while Poland beat Malta with a huge goal-swing. In reality, the Dutch are effectively through to the 2026 World Cup.

Polish and Ethiopian soccer players competing for the ball during a match, showcasing athleticism, teamwork, and competitive spirit on the field. — https://www.reuters.com/resizer/v2/BTLWPI43OJKLDFNPCRHARL5JLY.jpg?auth=f1355b1a3f181a6284648c43a8371edaa92df7b8ebee74b73bf2c507af404569&width=1920&quality=80

Finland fall out of the race

Elsewhere in the group, Finland’s hopes ended after a shock 1–0 defeat to Malta earlier in the day. Their loss confirmed that only Poland remain alive in the play-off battle.