Memphis Depay etched his name into Dutch football history, setting a new scoring record for the Netherlands in a thrilling 3-2 victory against Lithuania in their World Cup qualifier on Sunday. The 31-year-old Depay's two goals in the match propelled his national team tally to 52, surpassing Robin van Persie's previous record of 51 goals. This victory puts the Netherlands at the top of Group G with 10 points from four games.

The Dutch started strong, with Depay showcasing his brilliance early on. In the 11th minute, Cody Gakpo pulled back a pass from the byline, and Depay volleyed home from close range. The goal was met with jubilant celebrations, as his teammates hoisted him onto their shoulders. Midfielder Quinten Timber then scored his first international goal in the 33rd minute, extending the lead to 2-0 and seemingly putting the Netherlands on course for an easy win.

However, Lithuania mounted a spirited comeback, scoring twice in the space of seven minutes to level the score before halftime. In the 36th minute, Justas Lasickas orchestrated a mazy run from inside his own half, drawing the Dutch defense and setting up Gvidas Gineitis for a strike. Gineitis then floated a free-kick in the 43rd minute, which Edvinas Girdvainis headed home, rising above Gakpo.

The Dutch were visibly shaken, but Depay once again stepped up to deliver. In the 64th minute, Denzel Dumfries crossed from the right flank, and Depay rose to power home a header, securing a crucial three points for his team. Gakpo nearly added an insurance goal in the 70th minute, but his shot hit the woodwork. Despite the Netherlands' efforts, Lithuania continued to fight for an equalizer, causing some anxious moments for Ronald Koeman's team until the final whistle.

Depay's achievement comes on his 104th international appearance, surpassing Van Persie's record set in 102 appearances between 2005 and 2017. He debuted for the Netherlands in October 2013 and scored his first international goal at the 2014 World Cup against Australia, becoming the Netherlands' youngest-ever goalscorer at the tournament. In 2021, Depay had a record year, scoring 17 goals, including two at EURO 2020. He also equaled Wesley Sneijder's all-time assist record against Poland.

The Netherlands' journey in the World Cup qualifiers continues as they aim to secure a place at the 2026 World Cup in North America. Other notable results in the European Qualifiers include France's 2-0 win over Ukraine, Italy's 5-0 victory against Estonia, and Portugal's dominant 5-0 win against Armenia.