Stolen passport delays Depay join the Dutch team for qualifications of World Cup

The Netherlands’ Record scorer Memphis Depay arrives late this week for the qualifications of the country in the World Cup after he said that his passport was stolen in Brazil, where he plays for Corinthians.

Depay, 31, broke the record of Robin van Persie when he scored a two-squeeze in the 3-2 victory to Lithuania in the last group G qualification of the Netherlands, which brought him 52 goals for his country.

But the striker could miss his next game in Malta on Thursday, where the Dutch are expected to consolidate first place in the rankings.

«Memphis Depay will participate in the training camp of the Dutch national team at a later date,» said a statement from the Dutch Football Association on Monday.

“The player has announced that his passport was stolen, making him his planned flight from Brazil from Brazil on Sunday evening.

«He does everything he can to travel to the Netherlands as quickly as possible. That is why he is expected to come to the team soon.»

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Dutch coach Ronald Koeman added: “This is a shame, mainly for Memphis, but also for us. You naturally want to start your international preparations with a full team.

«At the same time there are circumstances outside our check. We hope that he can indeed travel to reach the training camp as soon as possible.»

The Netherlands will also face Finland at home on Sunday. The team has 10 points of the opening of four qualifications, for Poland on target difference with a competition in hand.

The group winners are directly eligible for the final in North America with second place in the play-offs.

Published on October 6, 2025