The Netherlands defeated Tunisia 3-1 to advance to the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in a Group F clash.

With this win, the Dutch side topped the group and avoided a tricky encounter with Brazil in the round of 32.

It was more due to poor defending by Tunisia than a brilliant performance by the Netherlands that gave the Dutch a 2-0 lead early in the game. Tunisia are leaving the tournament without a point.

First, Ellyes Skhiri sliced Denzel Dumfries’s cross into his own net, and minutes later, Sunderland forward Brian Brobbey lashed home from close range. However, the Tunisian side pulled one back, but it was too late to make any impact on the game.

The Netherlands, who finished their group fixtures with seven points, pipped Japan to top spot in Group F and will face Morocco in the round of 16 in Monterrey on Monday.

Japan drew their match 1-1 against Sweden in Arlington, Texas, confirming their spot in the next round.

The game between Tunisia and the Netherlands appeared one-sided, with a strong on-field display by the side in orange.

The Netherlands have played exceptionally well in the past four World Cup editions; however, they have always missed out on lifting the trophy by the smallest of margins.

Tunisia will go home with their tails between their legs after an embarrassing campaign in which they conceded 12 goals in three games.

Also read: Morocco become most successful African team in World Cup history