First the Netherlands released Cody Gakpo, then Cody Gakpo unleashed a warning to the World Cup. But perhaps the fastest goal of the tournament so far came too soon, both for the Netherlands and for Gakpo, even if the ferocious strike was a clear example of his exciting talent. By six minutes, Gakpo had fired the Netherlands towards the last 16 but by 60, he and they had become far too quiet, far too passive.
There is, clearly, much more work to do before Gakpo can truly declare himself to the World Cup as a forward capable of dragging this Netherlands side into the category of contenders. Gakpo’s stunning hit on the turn to give the Netherlands the lead looked to be the moment that launched this Dutch campaign. Like Gakpo’s shot, they were streaking clear in a hot, bright light of orange. In the end, it fizzled out long before full-time.
