Memphis Depay delivered a record-equalling performance on a night of history and celebration in Groningen, powering the Netherlands to an emphatic 8-0 win over Malta in their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.
The Dutch forward, who now plays for Corinthians in Brazil, scored twice to match Robin van Persie’s all-time goal record of 50 for the national team.
Born to a Ghanaian father and Dutch mother, Depay has often spoken about the dual influences in his life, and on this historic evening, he stood tall as one of the Netherlands’ greatest-ever forwards.
His milestone came in front of a jubilant crowd that witnessed Oranje’s return to Groningen for the first time in 42 years—a city where manager Ronald Koeman launched his professional career.
Depay’s first goal came from the penalty spot in the ninth minute, awarded after a VAR-reviewed foul on Xavi Simons. Unfazed by the occasion, Depay calmly dispatched the penalty, inching closer to the coveted record.
Just minutes later, in the 16th, a clever dummy by Simons allowed Denzel Dumfries’ low cross to roll through, and Depay fired home with conviction to reach the 50-goal mark.
The evening wasn’t only about numbers; it was a showcase of Depay’s enduring class. Beyond his goals, he assisted Simons for the fourth strike, threading a precise long ball that was finished with poise.
It was a full-circle moment for the striker who once struggled with injuries and club uncertainty but has now etched his name alongside Van Persie in Dutch football lore.
Depay’s substitution shortly after his third contribution did not slow the Dutch, who romped to their biggest win since 2012. But the night belonged to Memphis—a player who continues to shape his own legacy, one goal at a time.
