Cody Gakpo matches feat last achieved by Netherlands in 1978 as Oranje thump Malta in World Cup qualifier

The Netherlands extended their lead at the top of their World Cup qualifying group with a 4-0 win over Malta, powered by Gakpo’s standout display. The 26-year-old opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 12th minute after Ryan Gravenberch was fouled, before doubling his tally early in the second half following another foul on Wout Weghorst. Gakpo later turned provider, setting up Reijnders for the Oranje’s third before Memphis Depay added a fourth in stoppage time.

Gakpo’s brace carries historic significance — he is the first Dutch player since Rensenbrink at the 1978 World Cup to score two penalties in a single game, excluding shootouts, as per OptaJohan. That feat ties the Liverpool forward to one of the most iconic names in the Netherlands’ football history, reflecting his emergence as a reliable and composed figure for the Oranje. His ability to handle pressure from the spot and deliver consistent attacking output underlines his growing maturity on the international stage.

The fixture was largely one-sided from the outset as the Netherlands dominated possession and dictated play. Despite having a goal ruled out for offside, Gakpo’s composure and creativity were evident throughout, as he created four chances and constantly stretched Malta’s defense. Depay, Donyell Malen, and Justin Kluivert all came off the bench in the closing stages, but it was Gakpo’s clinical finishing that defined the night.

Beyond the record, Gakpo’s performance comes at a crucial time for the Netherlands as they look to build momentum ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Ronald Koeman’s squad is entering a new phase, blending experienced internationals like Depay and Virgil van Dijk with emerging stars such as Xavi Simons and Gravenberch. In that mix, Gakpo’s versatility and experience make him one of the key attacking pillars for the team’s qualification campaign and beyond.

The result leaves the Netherlands three points clear at the top of their qualifying group, with Finland up next on Sunday. However, despite the emphatic scoreline, Ronald Koeman’s side will be aware that their overall performance lacked rhythm at times and will need improvement against stronger opponents. Still, the victory provided a confidence boost and highlighted Gakpo’s growing importance to the national team setup.

Gakpo's form also mirrors his steady progress with Liverpool, where he has been an increasingly influential presence this season amid Mohamed Salah's struggles on the other wing. His work rate, composure, and eye for goal have seen him evolve into a dependable performer for both Arne Slot and the Dutch national side. 

For Liverpool, Gakpo has carried similar form into the 2025–26 season, contributing two goals and two assists in 10 appearances across all competitions so far. Deployed mainly as a left forward or central striker, his intelligent positioning and finishing have made him a consistent threat in both domestic and European matches. That sharpness was evident once again for the national team, where his chemistry with Weghorst and Reijnders proved decisive.

The Netherlands will now turn their attention to Sunday’s World Cup qualifier against Finland, where they can take another step toward securing automatic qualification. With confidence high after the win over Malta, Gakpo is expected to retain his starting spot as Koeman looks to maintain attacking momentum.

For Gakpo, the challenge will be to sustain this rich vein of form as both his club and country enter pivotal phases of their respective campaigns. With Liverpool struggling for form and the Netherlands eyeing to challenge for the World Cup in the summer of 2026, Gakpo will be hoping that he can carry his form for the rest of the season and avoid any injury setbacks.