Following a surprising defeat to Algeria that brought an end to their 10-match unbeaten streak, and the unfortunate update that Jurrien Timber has been ruled out of the World Cup, the Netherlands were in dire need of a morale boost today.

That lift came courtesy of Cody Gakpo, who put the Dutch side ahead against Uzbekistan in New York.

The Liverpool striker calmly converted from the penalty spot just after the 30-minute mark, making up for Donyell Malen’s earlier miss from close range.

It proved to be a significant goal on an important evening for Gakpo, who has now reached 20 international goals and earned his 50th cap for the Netherlands.

Head coach Ronald Koeman will be eager to see the 27-year-old forward—who netted three times during the 2022 World Cup—find his rhythm again as the team prepares for the upcoming tournament.