September 07, (THEWILL) — Memphis Depay made history on Sunday evening, overtaking Robin van Persie to become the Netherlands’ leading international goal scorer during a dramatic 3-2 victory over Lithuania in World Cup qualifying action. The forward struck twice in Group G, taking his tally to 52 goals for his nation whilst helping Ronald Koeman’s squad maintain their perfect record through four qualifying matches.
The Dutch opened proceedings in commanding fashion, with Depay converting Cody Gakpo’s left-wing delivery past goalkeeper Edvinas Gertmonas in the 11th minute. Quinten Timber doubled the advantage by capitalising on defensive confusion to net his maiden international goal, putting the visitors firmly in control during the opening period.
Lithuania refused to surrender, mounting an impressive fightback before the interval. Gvidas Gineitis pulled one back in the 36th minute with a precise finish into the bottom corner, before Edvinas Girdvainis powered home a header to level proceedings just prior to half-time.
Depay restored Dutch supremacy shortly after the hour mark, meeting Denzel Dumfries’ cross with a decisive header to claim the record-breaking strike. Gakpo nearly extended the lead when his thunderous effort struck the crossbar, but the Netherlands held firm against late pressure from their winless opponents.
The victory keeps the Oranje on course for 2026 World Cup qualification, with their unbeaten start to Group G providing strong foundations. Depay’s milestone moment came during a testing encounter that required character and quality to overcome determined Lithuanian resistance.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
