Memphis Depay scored twice to become the Netherlands’ all-time top scorer.
Memphis Depay has written history for the Netherlands after overtaking Robin van Persie to become the country’s leading scorer. The striker netted two goals in Kaunas as the Oranje defeated Lithuania in their World Cup qualifier.
His first goal came from a Cody Gakpo assist, putting him level with Van Persie’s 50-goal tally. Minutes later, he powered in a header from a Denzel Dumfries cross to reach 52 goals in 104 appearances. Van Persie had scored 50 in 102 games between 2005 and 2017.
Though ranked 143rd in the world, Lithuania did not go down quietly. They stunned the Dutch by fighting back from 2–0 down to level before halftime, becoming the lowest-ranked side to ever score twice against the Netherlands. But Depay’s influence after the break restored control for Ronald Koeman’s team.
Depay’s journey with the national team started in 2013 against Turkey. His first international goal came a year later at the World Cup in Brazil against Australia. Over the years, he has played for PSV, Manchester United, Lyon, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid before his unexpected move to Corinthians in Brazil last year.
The Oranje now lead Group G with 10 points from four matches, while Lithuania remain bottom. For Depay, this record is more than just numbers; it is proof of his lasting impact as he continues guiding a new generation of Dutch footballers.
