Netherlands edges Uzbekistan 2-1 with late Gakpo penalties

The Netherlands secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Uzbekistan in their final friendly before the World Cup, with Cody Gakpo converting two late penalties.

The match, played in the Netherlands, saw the home side dominate possession but struggle to convert their threats into goals for much of the game. The first penalty was awarded shortly after the half-hour mark for a clear foul in the box, which Gakpo calmly dispatched.

Uzbekistan managed to equalize in second-half stoppage time through Igor Sergeev, capitalizing on a rare opportunity. However, the Netherlands were awarded another penalty, this time in the 99th minute, which Gakpo again converted to secure the win.

The victory offered some relief after a surprising 0-1 home loss to Algeria earlier in the week. The Netherlands are drawn in Group F of the World Cup, where they will face Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia. Uzbekistan is in Group K, competing against Portugal, Congo, and Colombia.