Algeria 'stun' Netherlands in World Cup warm-up match in Rotterdam

The Netherlands made a bright start and should have taken control early in the contest. Donyell Malen came closest when he hit the post after a flowing attacking move, while debutant Crysencio Summerville thought he had helped create the opening goal before an offside decision ruled out the chance.

Malen remained heavily involved but could not find the finishing touch. The forward later dragged another effort wide after being set up by Summerville, leaving the Dutch frustrated despite creating the better opportunities.

Algeria gradually grew into the game and threatened through Mohamed Amoura and Riyad Mahrez. A crucial intervention from Micky van de Ven prevented Amoura from putting the visitors ahead, while Nabil Bentaleb tested goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen from a corner.

The second half remained open, with both sides making numerous changes. Ibrahim Maza nearly made an instant impact for Algeria, while Justin Kluivert and Cody Gakpo came close for the hosts as the Dutch searched for a breakthrough.

However, it was Algeria who delivered the decisive moment four minutes from time.

Hadj Moussa collected the ball on the right flank, skipped past Jorrel Hato and curled a superb effort into the top corner. The brilliant strike silenced De Kuip and secured an impressive victory for the North Africans.

The result continued Algeria's strong recent form, with the Desert Warriors losing only twice in their last 18 matches, one of those defeats coming via a penalty shootout.

After the match, Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman admitted his side had been given a valuable lesson before the World Cup.

"A wake-up call," Koeman said. "We should have scored in the first 20 minutes. We became sloppy and lacked aggression."

The Dutch boss was particularly disappointed with the missed opportunities, adding: "Malen should have scored."

Koeman did, however, praise Summerville's first appearance for the national team, saying: "A good debut for Summerville."

Algeria will face Argentina, Austria, and Jordan in Group J during the group stage of the World Cup. The Netherlands are drawn in Group F and will face Japan, Sweden, and Tunisia in the group stage.

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