Football history was rewritten on Tuesday night as Memphis Depay equalled Robin Van Persie’s iconic record, becoming the Netherlands’ joint all-time leading international goalscorer.
In a dominant 8-0 FIFA World Cup qualifier victory over Malta, Depay displayed his goal-scoring prowess, reaching 50 goals in just 102 games – precisely the same number as the legendary Robin Van Persie, Footballrover reports.
This monumental achievement firmly places Depay in an elite category of Dutch football.
Memphis Depay’s golden feat
The Netherlands put on a dazzling display in Groningen, securing their ninth unbeaten game.
Virgil van Dijk led the charge, but it was Depay who stole the headlines.
He calmly converted an early penalty before smashing home his 50th international goal, assisted by a clever Denzel Dumfries cut-back.
This second strike sealed his place alongside Robin Van Persie at the summit of Dutch goal-scoring.
Other goals from Van Dijk, Xavi Simons, Donyell Malen (2), Noah Lang, and Micky van de Ven completed the rout.
Chasing Van Persie’s legacy
The 8-0 thrashing of Malta ensures the Netherlands remain firmly in contention for World Cup qualification.
While the team’s performance was comprehensive, the spotlight remains on Depay and his incredible milestone.
He is now undeniably in the conversation of the greatest Dutch goalscorers, having matched the prolific Robin Van Persie.
The question now isn’t if, but when Depay will surpass the record and claim it solely for himself.
Be the first to comment on "Dutch goal king: Memphis Depay joins Van Persie at the top, bags brace in Netherlands 8-goal rout over Malta"