World Media Highlights Two Stars Amid Dutch 'Fear'
June 27, 2026 · Global
After the victory over Tunisia, the Dutch national team received praise from the world media, with particular focus on Brian Brobbey and Denzel Dumfries, as well as the upcoming match against Morocco.
After achieving a 3-1 victory over Tunisia, the Dutch national team received a lot of praise from the international media. Brian Brobbey and Denzel Dumfries are two of the players highlighted, while attention is also on the upcoming match against Morocco.
"It wasn't a difficult match for the Netherlands," wrote Marca after the win. "The Netherlands had to beat the weakest team in this World Cup to come first in the group, and they did it without much difficulty. Within seven minutes, the job was done. After a short comeback attempt from Tunisia, Ronald Koeman's side made no more mistakes. Now, they face Morocco, one of the most exciting matches of the round of 16."
Denzel Dumfries was a standout for Kansas, with a dangerous pass that led to the opening goal. "Dumfries is again one of the best for the Netherlands, as José Mourinho is interested in a possible transfer to Real Madrid," the newspaper added.
"The Netherlands showed that they are serious about competing for the World Cup title," wrote AS. El Mundo Deportivo called this a "poisonous gift", referring to their opponents in the next round. "The Netherlands comfortably secured top spot in the group, but they now have to face Morocco in the last 16."
La Gazzetta dello Sport also appreciated Dumfries' performance. "He provided the assist for the first goal, as he also did with two assists against Sweden. He looks increasingly fit physically. From the start, it was clear that this was not going to be a close match, especially after Brobbey, who has been in excellent form, scored his third goal of this World Cup."
In Belgium, the praise for Dumfries continues to pour in. "Even though he didn't score a goal or provide an assist, Denzel Dumfries still played very well," said Sporza. "Real Madrid's new right-back controlled the entire right side and dominated with his strength and speed. He came close to scoring several times, but it seemed like that day wasn't his day."
The Athletic also highlighted Brobbey. "Lionel Messi, Vinícius Junior, Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland… and now Brian Brobbey. With three goals in the World Cup, he is now only behind these stars in the hunt for the Golden Boot," wrote the media which is part of The New York Times. "This is all the more impressive considering Brobbey started the tournament on the bench. Brobbey gave every defender a tough night, with his strength and willingness to use it, that is what makes him such a dangerous player."
Sky Sports discusses the resilience of the Dutch team. "The Dutch controlled the game even though not everything went according to plan. However, what was most impressive was how Ronald Koeman's team responded to warnings from Tunisia, who could have scored earlier. The Dutch reacted immediately. The same thing happened in the second half after Tunisia scored the equaliser. However, can they do the same against a stronger opponent? In the knockout round, we will find out. Whatever it is, they have already shown by scoring ten goals in the group phase that they are a frightening opponent for anyone.
International media considers that the Dutch performance shows their readiness to face tougher challenges in the knockout phase of the 2026 World Cup.