Netherlands were dealt a bad hand in their quest for a place in next summer's FIFA World Cup in Qatar following a shock 2-2 draw with Montenegro in their penultimate qualifying group game. The Oranje collapsed at the death in the night's encounter, conceding twice in the last eight minutes of the proceeding to see their automatic progress to mundial being temporarily held up.
The Netherlands had a slim advantage at the top of Group G going into the penultimate round of games, but Norway's loss to Latvia at home significantly increased their chances of sealing their fate with ease. Memphis Depay's opener from the penalty spot in the 25th minute hinted at a smooth and safe passage for the men in orange while his second goal of the night gave fans of his side the belief of a done deal.
37 – Memphis Depay has now scored 37 goals for the Netherlands, making him the joint-fourth highest goal scorer for @OnsOranje along with Dennis Bergkamp and Arjen Robben. Hunt. #MNENED pic.twitter.com/HiUU9VJfcn
— OptaJohan (@OptaJohan) November 13, 2021
However, less than eight minutes till full-time, IIija Vukotic pulled one goal back for the visitors. Four minutes later, Nikola Vujnovic restored parity to silence the away fans who eventually had their celebrations for qualifying to World Cup for the first time in eight years postponed momentarily.
Louis Van Gaal's men now have their destiny in their own hands, as they lead Group G with 20 points and are currently two points clear of Turkey and Norway. They will come up against the latter who could well dent their chances of booking a place at the World Cup when they travel to Amsterdam in two days.
