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Memphis Depay overtakes Robin van Persie as Netherlands' all-time top goalscorer after netting brace in thrilling World Cup qualifying clash with Lithuania

  • Depay scores brace vs Lithuania
  • Becomes Dutch all-time leading goalscorer
  • Former United player has netted 52 times
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  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The Netherlands were pushed hard in Lithuania to take three points in their quest for World Cup qualification and, once again, Depay was the man for the big occasion. The former Manchester United forward stepped up to fire home the winner after the hosts had pegged back his and Quinten Timber's earlier efforts. In doing so, Depay overtook Robin van Persie as his nation's all-time top scorer.

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    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Van Persie amassed 50 goals for the Netherlands in 102 games, leading the likes of Klaas-Jan Huntelaar (42), Patrick Kluivert (40), Dennis Bergkamp (37) and Arjen Robben (37) in the charts. Before today's game, Depay was level with Van Persie and knew just one goal would be enough to take him clear. On his 102nd appearance for the Oranje, Depay broke the record.

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    Depay now plays his football in Brazil. The Dutch forward, who was once considered a flop at Manchester United, went on to have a fine career at Lyon before earning moves to Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. After leaving Spain, he joined Corinthians, where he has scored 15 goals in 51 appearances to date. 

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    WHAT NEXT FOR DEPAY?

    Depay will still be hoping to take his nation to the World Cup next summer. Even though he is playing his football outside of Europe, few in the Netherlands would be able to forget the role that the 31-year-old can play for Ronald Koeman's side - particularly now as the nation's highest ever scorer.