The Netherlands beat the United States by a score of 3-1 to kick off the Round of 16 at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Memphis Depay opened up the scoring after just 10 minutes, smashing home a perfectly placed pass from Denzel Dumfries. After the early goal, the teams played an even game for the remaining 35 minutes of the first half. On the cusp of halftime, it was Denzel Dumfries again, playing provider and finding Daley Blind with another cutback to pass to put the Netherlands up 2-0 in the 45+1 minute.
The second half was much of the same for the first 25 minutes, as the Netherlands slowed the game down while the United States pushed forward to start their comeback. In the 76th minute, Christian Pulisic's precise pass found Haji Wright's feet and somehow found the back of the net, making it 2-1. Five minutes later in the 81st minute, Denzel Dumfries slammed the door shut on any United States comeback by scoring the Netherlands' third and final goal.
xG: Netherlands 1.45 – 1.40 United States
Man of Match: Denzel Dumfries, Netherlands
Who else but Dumfries? He assisted the first and second goals before scoring one himself to make it 3-1 and end the United States' comeback. To go along with his offensive production, Dumfries applied 52 total pressures, won three aerial duels and blocked three passes to cap off his excellent all-around performance.
Best Passer: Tyler Adams, United States
Adams was the driving force for the United States again, as he was the best passer in the match, completing 93.0% of the passes he attempted. He completed 80-of-86 passes, one through ball and all 11 of his line-breaking passes.
Best Challenger: Jurrien Timber, Netherlands
Timber was excellent in the back for the Dutch. He won two of three aerial duels, three of four 50/50 duels, defended three of four dribbles successfully and won two additional tackles.
Goalkeepers
It was a good day for the Netherlands' Andries Noppert. Making only his fourth career start for the Dutch, Noppert made some crucial saves. He made six saves and won one 50/50 duel just outside of his box to deny Haji Wright an opportunity at goal. The only goal he allowed was a fluke goal that Haji Wright mishit into the opposite side netting.
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