Gakpo: My Role with the National Team is Slightly Different

Cody Gakpo has now netted five goals in World Cups, bagging a brace against Sweden in the Netherlands' dominant 5-1 victory. Following a somewhat underwhelming season with Liverpool, he was asked to elaborate on the differences between playing for the Merseyside club and his national team.

"It's a bit different. The way I play here, the position the coach wants me in, and the freedom I have at the club," he attempted to explain.

Gakpo also commented on the 'Oranje's' performance in their opening two matches of the 2026 World Cup: "We possess diverse qualities: speed, patient build-up play, and we're strong in the penalty area. Memphis showcased his abilities. Even on the bench, we have Justin Kluivert and Weghorst. It's good to have such variety. Japan was very disciplined and didn't allow us the significant opportunities we had against Sweden."