The Netherlands took a significant step towards the 2026 World Cup with a 1-1 draw against Poland in Warsaw. Memphis Depay's equaliser kept Ronald Koeman's team three points ahead of Poland, with a 13-goal
advantage as they approach their final qualification match. The game saw both teams struggle to find the net in the closing stages at Stadion Narodowy.
Poland nearly took an early lead when Matty Cash delivered a precise cross to Nicola Zalewski, who missed from close range. However, Jakub Kaminski gave Poland the lead just before half-time, slotting the ball through Bart Verbruggen's legs after a clever exchange with Robert Lewandowski. The Netherlands responded swiftly after the break.
Depay levelled the score by tapping in after Kamil Grabara saved Donyell Malen's header. Lewandowski almost restored Poland's lead soon after, connecting with another Cash cross, but Verbruggen denied him. Both teams failed to create further clear chances as the match concluded without a winner.
No winner in Warsaw.#NothingLikeOranje #POLNED pic.twitter.com/NMyo1TCBpM
— OnsOranje (@OnsOranje) November 14, 2025
Memphis Depay has been instrumental for the Netherlands, scoring his eighth goal in this qualifying campaign. Only Erling Haaland has scored more, with 14 goals. Depay has now found the net in each of his last four qualifiers. Meanwhile, Poland faces an uphill task to secure direct qualification.
Unless Poland achieves an improbable 13-goal swing in their final group game, they will likely finish second and enter the play-offs in Group G. Zalewski might regret his early miss as Poland managed 1.56 expected goals (xG) from 12 shots compared to the Netherlands' 0.74 from eight attempts.
The Dutch team remains well-positioned for World Cup qualification thanks to their superior goal difference and consistent performances throughout the campaign.
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