Netherlands Striker Memphis Depay Misses World Cup Qualifier After Passport Theft in Brazil

Memphis Depay, the Netherlands' all-time top scorer with 52 goals, missed the start of his national team's international duty after his passport was stolen in Brazil, where he plays for Corinthians. This incident prevented him from traveling to the Netherlands on schedule for upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Malta and Finland. The Dutch Football Association confirmed Depay is doing everything possible to join the team soon, while coach Ronald Koeman expressed frustration but remains hopeful that Depay will arrive at the training camp shortly. Koeman noted that although Depay will miss the crucial qualifier against Malta, he is expected to travel on an emergency passport and potentially participate in the following match against Finland. Depay's absence was a setback for the Dutch team, currently top of Group G in World Cup qualification. The team remains optimistic about maintaining their lead and hopes to have their star forward back as soon as possible.