Passport theft sidelines Memphis Depay as Dutch face Malta in World Cup qualifier

When Memphis Depay, the 31‑year‑old forward for Corinthians, discovered his passport was stolen in São Paulo, his plans to join the Netherlands national team for the FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Malta fell apart. The incident, reported on Sunday evening, forced the all‑time Dutch scorer to miss the Thursday kickoff, leaving coach Ronald Koeman to reshuffle his attacking options. The theft underscores how off‑field setbacks can ripple through a crucial qualifying campaign.

Background: Depay’s journey from Europe to Brazil

Depay, who rose to fame at PSV Eindhoven before stints at Manchester United and Barcelona, moved to Corinthians in early 2023. Despite a turbulent club career, he remains the Netherlands’ record‑scoring forward with 52 goals in 104 appearances. The Oranje entered the current qualifying cycle tied on 10 points with Poland in Group G, but have a game in hand, making every match vital.

Passport theft and the scramble for emergency documents

According to the Dutch Football Association (KNVB), Depay’s passport vanished about an hour before his scheduled flight from São Paulo to Amsterdam on Sunday. He attempted to convince airline staff and border officials to let him travel without the document, but was denied boarding. The passport theft triggered a frantic race to obtain emergency travel papers, a process that delayed his arrival by a full day.

By Monday morning, Brazilian authorities issued a temporary passport, allowing Depay to board a flight that landed at Schiphol Airport on Tuesday. The delay meant he missed the tactical preparations for the Malta clash, a match the Dutch hoped to win comfortably.

Koeman’s tactical dilemma without his marquee striker

Coach Koeman, speaking to the press on Tuesday, admitted the setback forced a “minor tactical adjustment.” He said, “The plan I had in mind for this week will change a bit. He won’t start, no.” With Depay sidelined, Koeman was forced to consider younger alternatives who could bring fresh energy to the attack.

The Dutch coaching staff reviewed the squad list and highlighted a few candidates:

• Mexx Meerdink – 22‑year‑old AZ Alkmaar striker who earned a surprise call‑up for the double‑header.
• Brian Brobbey – Everton forward who has struggled for minutes at Sunderland.
• Joshua Zirkzee – Manchester United youngster still fighting for a regular place.
• Wout Weghorst – 33‑year‑old veteran who could provide a physical presence.

Each option carries different risks and rewards, and Koeman’s choice will likely influence the team’s playing style against Malta.

Impact on the Dutch qualifying campaign

Group G is shaping up to be a tight race. The Netherlands sit level on points with Poland but have played one fewer match. A win over Malta would restore confidence and keep the Oranje on track for a direct qualification spot. However, dropping points could hand Poland the edge, especially with Finland looming as the next opponent.

Analysts at ESPN note that the Dutch have historically relied on Depay in high‑pressure games. "His absence tests the depth of Koeman’s squad," said former Dutch international and pundit Giovanni van Bronckhorst. "If the younger forwards can step up, it could be a turning point for the team's evolution."

Looking ahead: What’s next for Depay and the Oranje?

Depay joined the Dutch training camp in Amsterdam on Tuesday, two days after his intended arrival. He is expected to be fully fit for the final qualifier against Finland on Sunday, a match that could decide the group winner.

Beyond the immediate fixtures, the incident raises broader questions about player logistics and security when clubs and national teams operate across continents. The KNVB has indicated it will review travel protocols to prevent similar mishaps.