The Netherlands national team reinforced their lead by defeating Malta 4-0, while Finland secured a valuable 2-1 victory over Lithuania on Thursday, during the seventh round of the European qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In the first match, Cody Gakpo starred by scoring two penalties in the 12th and 48th minutes and assisted Tijjani Reijnders for the third goal in the 57th minute. Substitute Memphis Depay sealed the scoring with a fourth goal in the 90+3 minute.

Netherlands raised their tally to 13 points with one game in hand, leading Poland and Finland who both have 10 points. The Dutch will host Finland in Amsterdam on Sunday, while Poland will visit Lithuania.

In another match, Finland earned a crucial 2-1 win against Lithuania in Helsinki. Lithuania took the lead with a strong shot by defender Pius Černyšov in the 25th minute. Finland equalized early in the second half through Benjamin Kermal and then Adam Marjiev scored the winner in the 55th minute.

The group leader qualifies directly for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, while the runner-up will enter the playoff round.