Gakpo's late brace salvages 2-1 win for Netherlands against Uzbekistan

Cody Gakpo emerged as the hero for the Netherlands, scoring a dramatic equalizer in the 98th minute to snatch a 2-1 victory against Uzbekistan in a pre-2026 World Cup friendly match played in New York.

The Dutch team had taken a first-half lead through Gakpo's penalty in the 30th minute, converting a spot-kick awarded after Jakhongir Urozvoz fouled Crysencio Summerville. Ronald Koeman's side dominated the first half, with Donyell Malen and Tijjani Reijnders also coming close to scoring, though the high temperatures appeared to slow the game's pace.

After the break, the Netherlands came close to extending their lead when Gakpo's shot narrowly missed the crossbar in the 55th minute. Brian Bobbrey appeared to score a second goal, but it was disallowed for offside. The match took a dramatic turn in the final minutes when Uzbekistan was awarded a penalty after a VAR review, following a handball by Guus Til, who was subsequently sent off. Otabek Shukurov missed the resulting penalty.

Uzbekistan equalized in the 92nd minute through Igor Sergeev, seemingly setting the stage for a draw. However, in the dying moments of the match, Gakpo struck again in the 98th minute to complete his brace and secure a hard-fought win for the Netherlands. This victory concluded the Netherlands' friendly matches, which included two wins (against Norway and Uzbekistan), one loss (against Algeria), and one draw (against Ecuador).