Dutch march into World Cup knockouts as group winners

Dutch march into World Cup knockouts as group winners after a 3-1 win over Tunisia on Thursday in Kansas City, securing first place in Group F and avoiding a likely matchup with Brazil in the Round of 32. Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands opened a two-goal lead in soggy conditions, with Ellyes Skhiri deflecting a Denzel Dumfries cross into his own net before Brian Brobbey scored from close range. Tunisia pulled one back in the second half when Hazem Mastouri headed in, but the Netherlands restored their two-goal advantage shortly after the hour through a Jan Paul van Hecke header. The Netherlands finished on seven points and edged Japan, which drew 1-1 with Sweden in Arlington, Texas, to confirm second place. Tunisia’s tournament ended with 12 goals conceded across three games. The match followed a lightning-storm scare that threatened delays.